Diseases Linked To Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a carcinogenic mineral that was used in various product applications because of its natural resistance to heat, electricity and corrosion. In the 1970s and 1980s, the use of asbestos became highly regulated and essentially “outlawed” because it was proven that inhaling asbestos mineral fibers could cause cancers and other serious health problems. In this article, we’ll talk about some of the diseases that are commonly caused by or linked to asbestos exposure!
If you are a Massachusetts home or business owner that believes asbestos is present in your house or building, contact our team at DCM Environmental Testing Co. today for a free asbestos testing estimate!
Asbestos-Related Health Problems
Exposure to asbestos can occur anywhere that a product containing the carcinogenic mineral is located: at your home, at work, or anywhere else where you may be spending extended periods of time. Asbestos is still commonly found in insulation, cement, building materials, car parts, electrical parts, and many other products. Studies show that asbestos exposure increases the chances of developing lung, larynx and ovarian cancer. Other common health issues that asbestos exposure can cause include:
Asbestosis
Asbestosis occurs when asbestos fibers are inhaled and cause scarring in the lungs. Asbestosis makes breathing difficult, because the scar tissue makes passing oxygen & carbon dioxide in and out of the lungs more difficult. Asbestosis typically takes years of exposure to asbestos to develop, and even then, symptoms may not appear for several more years.
Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion, also referred to as “water on the lungs”, is a condition where fluid builds up between the layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity. This fluid buildup can cause breathing problems and less efficient lung function.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is a tumor that is most commonly found on the tissue that lines the lungs, but can also be found on the stomach, heart, or other internal organs. Exposure to asbestos fibers is the only known cause of mesothelioma.
Contact DCM Environmental Testing!
If you believe your home or business may contain asbestos, it's crucial for your health to test for it as soon as possible. At DCM Environmental, we provide Massachusetts and the surrounding region with professional, unbiased testing for asbestos and other hazardous materials. Contact us today to learn more or get a free asbestos testing estimate by calling us at (617) 481-5782 or by filling out the contact form on our website!
