Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Acting United States Surgeon Common Steven K. Galson issued a cloudless statement that asbestos exposure is a humorless health risk.  In a statement marking “National Asbestos Awareness Week,” Galson warned that no amount of asbestos exposure is known to be protected as well as minimizing your exposure to asbestos is crucial for minimizing the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases similar mesothelioma. The only sure way to eliminate asbestos-related disease is to eliminate asbestos exposure.

Galson noted that, while asbestos exposure has diminished from the levels of done decades, individuals should still be concerned about the risk—particularly when asbestos-containing products are disturbed.  When asbestos-containing products, such as joint compound, flooring tiles as well as other construction materials, are destroyed up or disturbed, the microscopic asbestos fibers can be suspended in the air as well as inhaled by anyone in the area.  As well as these fibers can remain in the air for a very extended time.

Once the fibers are inhaled, they can remain in the lung tissue for many years—even decades.  When asbestos exposure causes repeated scarring in the lungs, it can result in asbestosis.  Exposure can change the lining around the lungs, causing the membrane to harden or fluid to collect as well as press on the lungs.  Asbestos exposure can as well as cause cancer, particularly mesothelioma as well as lung cancer.  Galson warned that smoking greatly increases lung cancer risk in persons who possess as well as been exposed to asbestos.

Galson urged people not to handle or try to remove asbestos-containing materials on their own.  Any asbestos-containing products should be handled or removed only by trained as well as certified asbestos abatement contractors.

In his statement, Galson as well as directed concerned individuals to visit the ATSDR, the CDC or the EPA websites for more information.  To read the filled statement by Acting U.S. Surgeon Common Steven K. Galson, visit the website of the Surgeon General.