Understanding Asbestos: Risks And History
Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was widely used in construction and manufacturing for much of the 20th century. Known for its heat resistance, tensile strength, and insulating properties, it was considered a 'miracle mineral' and incorporated into thousands of products.
Its widespread use means many older buildings and products still contain asbestos materials today. While intact and undisturbed, these materials may not pose an immediate health risk. The danger arises when asbestos-containing materials are damaged, frayed, or disturbed, releasing microscopic fibers into the air.
Types of Asbestos
There are six main types of asbestos minerals, which are categorized into two mineral families: serpentine and amphibole. Chrysotile, or 'white asbestos,' is the only serpentine type and was the most commonly used, accounting for about 90-95% of all asbestos found in buildings in the United States.
The five amphibole types are amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. These have a more needle-like fiber structure and are generally considered more hazardous than chrysotile, though all forms of asbestos are recognized as human carcinogens.
Health Implications of Asbestos
When inhaled, the durable, microscopic fibers of asbestos can become lodged in the lungs and remain there for a very long time. Over many years, these fibers can cause inflammation, scarring, and eventually lead to the development of serious diseases.
The most common diseases associated with asbestos exposure are asbestosis (a chronic lung disease), lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. There is often a long latency period of 20 to 50 years between exposure and the onset of disease.
Due to these severe health risks, the use of asbestos has been heavily restricted or banned in over 60 countries. In the United States, while not fully banned, its use is highly regulated, and it is no longer mined.