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Asbestos: A Hidden Killer

Many of today's lung disease cases can be associated with the hidden killer known as asbestos. Many manufacturers prefer to use asbestos due to its fiber strength and heat resistant properties needed for a variety of building construction materials for purposes of insulation and as a fire-retardant, mostly in roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, paper products, and asbestos cement products.

Asbestos is also used for friction products such as automobile clutch, brake, and transmission parts, as well as heat-resistant fabrics, packaging, gaskets, and coatings. However, when they are damaged or disturbed by repair activities, microscopic fibers become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause significant health problems such as:

Asbestosis - A serious, progressive, long-term non-cancer disease of the lungs. Lung Cancer - People who work in asbestos factories and those who use their products are more likely to develop lung cancer.

Mesothelioma - A rare form of cancer that is found in the thin lining (membrane) of the lungs, chest, abdomen, and heart. The risk is made worse by smoking. Since disease symptoms may take several years to develop following exposure, consult a doctor who specializes in lung diseases (pulmologist) if you are concerned about possible exposure.

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APA Reference
(2010, January 21). Asbestos: A Hidden Killer, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, November 14 from https://www.healthyplace.com/support-blogs/myblog/Asbestos%3A-A-Hidden-Killer

Last Updated: January 14, 2014

Medically reviewed by Harry Croft, MD

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