Types of Asbestos Exposure

• Inhalation of Fibers

The most common and almost unconsciously done is the inhalation of asbestos fibers in the atmosphere. When this happens, the body will have extreme difficulty expelling the fibers and so they lodge in the lining of the abdomen, lungs or the heart. This leads to irritation and inflammation, which would normally be manifested after twenty or more years. Asbestos exposure can result to mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer and other related diseases.

• Ingestion Through Intake

Asbestos can also be ingested in a number of ways, the most common of which is via drinking water, resulting to an increased risk of stomach, intestinal or throat cancer.

• Occupational Exposure

Another common form of asbestos exposure happens in the workplace where asbestos is around. Occupational exposure have taken place in the past amongst miners, shipbuilders, manufacturers of asbestos products, brake mechanics and other industrial workers.

• Naturally Occurring Asbestos

Throughout the USA , the asbestos mineral can be found in many places. Naturally occurring asbestos, when untouched, does not pose any threat to human health. However, there are places, particularly California where naturally occurring asbestos is very close to the surface of the soil that it can easily be disturbed by landscaping, wind, construction or other human activities, and can become airborne and consequently, be a health hazard.

In Libby, Montana, naturally occurring asbestos is also becoming a serious problem because the vermiculite mined from the area was found to be contaminated by asbestos. Asbestos fibers were made airborne by the mining process and the vermiculite which was heavily contaminated with the hazardous mineral was sold around the world.

Determining the Time of Exposure

One of the major concerns of those diagnosed by asbestos-related illnesses is knowing when the exposure to the mineral took place since the symptoms develop many decades after the actual time. Research reveals that most of the asbestos exposures occurred in the workplace or occupational setting. As such, the first steps in finding out the time when the exposure took place is a review of the patient's employment history. A very good mesothelioma attorney knows how to assist a client in this, with his vast knowledge and experience in this field.

Limiting Asbestos Exposure

The best way to reduce the danger of developing asbestos-related sickness is by avoiding or at least limiting exposure to the mineral. While there is no known safe level of exposure, prevention of future illnesses is possible by avoiding contact albeit in the smallest degree.

Ways to Limit Asbestos Exposure

• Wear a mask with HEPA filter that securely covers the nose and mouth when working around asbestos-containing materials.
• The clothes and shoes used while working around asbestos-containing materials should not be worn at home or anywhere else to prevent contact with other people.
• Minimize dust if you are residing in an area surrounded by high natural levels of asbestos by paving the driveways, shutting windows on dry weathers and avoiding land disturbance such as landscaping, biking, and other activities.
• If living in an old building, assume that it might contain asbestos building materials. If you plan on remodeling the unit, contact an asbestos abatement professional for assessment. Other people should not be allowed into the area without safety gear.