Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a variety of commercial and industrial applications for many years. It is well known for its heat-resistant and fire-resistant properties. Asbestos exposure can occur during the mining, milling, and manufacturing of asbestos-containing products, as well as during the installation, repair, or removal of these products.
Asbestos exposure is a known cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning it can take many years – even decades – for symptoms to develop. This makes it difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. The only way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos altogether. If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to talk to your doctor and get regular checkups. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6716a1.htm
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/asbestos
https://www.mesothelioma.com/asbestos-exposure/