How are Asbestos and Cancer Linked?
Asbestos is a term used to refer to a group of six naturally-occurring fibrous minerals that are composed of thin, microscopic fibres. Asbestos was typically used in commercial and residential construction, due to its low price as well as resistance to fire, heat, corrosion, and electricity.
Even though asbestos products have been around for some time and are still present in older buildings, they have been banned in most countries as a result of health concerns caused by asbestos exposure;
What is the Effect of Asbestos Exposure?
After inhalation or ingestion of asbestos dust, the effects are typically not instant. Asbestos fibres usually get trapped in the body leading to cause scarring, inflammation, and even genetic damage to body cells over time.
In severe cases, asbestos exposure can cause a rare and aggressive cancer referred to as mesothelioma. It can also cause other types of cancer in addition to progressive lung disease. As well as this you cannot see, taste, or smell asbestos fibres. This is why if you suspect that a material contains asbestos, you should always seek professional assistance so that the material can be tested in a lab.
Why is it Important to Get Rid of Asbestos?
As you now know, asbestos fibres have a variety of harmful and damaging effects. One thing that you always want to keep in mind is that you should never try to dispose of asbestos without professional help. Trying to dispose of asbestos yourself means you will be exposing yourself and others to unneeded risks. Here are the main reasons why professional asbestos removal is vital:
1. It’s a good way to prevent lung cancer
Lung cancer is undoubtedly deadly, considering that it involves one of the most delicate organs in the body, your lungs. Most lung cancer cases are diagnosed when the condition is more advanced, making it harder to treat.
In a single year, up to 5,000 cases of lung cancer are traced back to asbestos exposure. What this means is that the asbestos-containing materials in your home can cause lung cancer or different chronic conditions. Even though there are several other causes of lung cancer, getting rid of asbestos is a good way to eliminate one of the known causes.
2. Reduce environmental asbestos
Any asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma. For this reason, it’s important to use safe removal techniques to get rid of asbestos from industrial sites or any places where asbestos occurs naturally. Reducing environmental asbestos goes a long way in reducing the probability of contracting deadly forms of lung cancer.
Final Thought
Asbestos can cause lung cancer and other progressive illnesses in the long run. The most dangerous part is that it’s hard to detect asbestos fibres unless it’s through a lab test. What’s even worse is that the effects occur slowly over time, progressively getting worse. The good news, however, is that it’s possible to avoid all the nasty effects of exposure to asbestos by getting rid of any materials containing the minerals.
If you have asbestos that needs removing call Croft Environmental Services, a company that takes great pride in the work they do. And only use the most up-to-date equipment and methods of asbestos removal and treatment. Get in touch today on 0116 251 8050 or head over to their website for more information.
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