What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is the name of a group of strong natural mineral fibers. These fibers are fire-resistant as well as chemical-resistant.
This mineral was very commonly used in construction. However, a few short decades ago, this mineral has been found to be the leading cause of mesothelioma. This is why it has been banned in the use of building and construction works.
Why was it so popularly used in the first place?
Asbestos is prized for its ability to withstand extremely high temperatures. This makes it a perfect ingredient for constructing buildings and houses. Additionally, it can effectively stand up against the harsh weather.
Construction and manufacturing companies have used this natural mineral for decades. They can be found in construction materials like ceilings and floors in a lot of homes made in the 19th century before the mineral was banned.
Additionally, manufacturers also use asbestos in automotive brake pads and linings.
After a number of decades, scientists found out and began to understand the link between asbestos and mesothelioma. At this point, asbestos was banned for use across the globe.
But it's also good to note that asbestos fibers are not particularly dangerous if left undisturbed. The danger happens when they become airborne and are inhaled.
Top Risk Factors of Mesothelioma
In order to prevent mesothelioma, it's important to know its causes and risk factors.
Aside from exposure to asbestos, there are several other causes.
Smoking:
Smoking is generally dangerous for your health. Whether it's to prevent cancer or other diseases, it is general knowledge that smoking causes a lot of damage to the body. But in combination with asbestos exposure, smoking can increase the risk of mesothelioma at a much higher rate.
Radiation exposure:
This is another possible cause of mesothelioma. Radiation exposure can be due to lymphoma or other types of treatments.
Genetics:
There is a 1% of people with mesothelioma who have inherited it. It is caused by a genetic mutation called BAP1.
Related: Mesothelioma Causes Other Than Asbestos
Who Are at Risk for Mesothelioma?
The most common reason for developing this dangerous cancer is asbestos exposure.
Most patients who develop mesothelioma have had high levels of asbestos exposure which happened over a long period of time. The most common reason for these exposures occurs while on the job.
This is because those involved in the construction or installation of products that contain the dangerous mineral are more likely to breathe in or swallow asbestos fibers.
The types of jobs that are most at risk for asbestos exposure include the following:
- Auto mechanics
- Automotive, factory, and railway workers
- Building renovators and demolition crews
- Blacksmiths
- Shipbuilders
- Construction workers, carpenters, cabinet or furniture makers
- Cement plant workers
- HVAC mechanics
- Firefighters
- Electricians
- Insulation manufacturers and installers
- Miners
- Plumbers
- Weavers
- Police officers
- Gas mask manufacturers
If there's a chance of exposure to asbestos on the job, such as during the renovation of old buildings, it is a must to use protective equipment. Additionally, it is important to follow safety procedures designed for working around asbestos.
Read on to find out how to prevent mesothelioma. Click the next page now.
