Warning signs featuring skulls and crossbones are not an exaggeration when it comes to asbestos. As a known human carcinogen, the health risks associated with inhaling its microscopic fibers are severe, irreversible, and often take decades to appear.
When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny, needle-like fibers into the air. These fibers are so small they can be inhaled deep into the lungs, where they become lodged permanently and can cause devastating damage over time.
Primary Diseases Linked to Asbestos Exposure
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that attacks the thin lining of the lungs, chest, and abdomen. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma.
- Asbestosis: This is a chronic, non-cancerous respiratory disease. The lodged asbestos fibers cause scarring in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and permanent lung damage.
- Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. The risk is exponentially higher for individuals who also smoke.
Health agencies worldwide agree that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. This is why federal and state regulations are so strict. Protecting your family, employees, or tenants from these diseases is the single most important reason to hire a professional for any asbestos testing and removal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Health Risks
How long after exposure to asbestos do symptoms appear? Asbestos-related diseases have a very long latency period. This means that the symptoms can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years after the initial exposure to develop, which is why asbestos is often called a hidden or silent killer.
Is a single, short-term exposure to asbestos dangerous? While the highest risk is associated with long-term, occupational exposure, any exposure can increase a person’s risk of developing an asbestos-related disease in the future. Because there is no safe threshold, it’s always best to avoid any and all exposure.
Who is most at risk for asbestos-related diseases? Historically, workers in industries like shipbuilding, construction, plumbing, and manufacturing had the highest risk. Today, demolition and renovation workers are at high risk if they don’t take proper precautions. Families can also be at risk from “take-home” exposure from fibers brought home on clothing, or from living in a home with deteriorating asbestos materials.
Need professional asbestos abatement on Long Island? Upper Restoration provides licensed asbestos abatement and removal services across NYC and Long Island. Contact us for a free assessment.
