Asbestos refers to a mineral composed of thin and fibrous crystals. Its exposure poses significant health issues due to carcinogenic properties. When it gets disturbed by any means, whether constructing or maintaining the ACMs, the particles become airborne and contaminate the surrounding environment. Inhaling these asbestos fibres directly or even a brief exposure to them can lead to fatal diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. 

These severe health issues contribute to thousands of deaths annually in the UK despite the ban, which emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and safety measures.

Asbestos — A Fibrous Substance with Potential Health Risks

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals known for their durability and heat resistance. Due to these properties, it has been extensively utilized in construction materials and various industrial applications over the past decades for fireproofing. However, the government has now prohibited the use of asbestos due to its link with several life-threatening diseases and high mortality rates.

Dangers associated with asbestos stem from its fibrous structure and the type of disorders linked to absorption. It releases tiny fibres into the air when managed improperly. Long-term contact with these airborne particles or even a minor inhalation traps them in the lungs and other body tissues, which may not initially be an issue or show any symptoms but can damage body organs with time. 

The fibrous nature of silicate minerals makes it difficult for the body to expel these materials out and leads to serious chronic diseases.

Exposure to Asbestos — How it Occurs

Asbestos contact happens when one inhales in a contaminated environment and ingests its fibres. It is mostly present in insulation materials, roofing or flooring products, and automotive parts. So when replacing or doing any work to these materials, they increase the chances of particle release. Though its use in new construction projects is now banned, older buildings and products still contain silicate substances and pose a health risk to those who come in contact with them. 

• Renovating or demolishing older buildings without proper precautions.
• Over time, the deterioration of Asbestos-containing materials makes it friable.
• Mining or processing asbestos minerals.
• Manufacturing or repairing vehicles and brake linings. 

Direct exposure is when you are personally involved in handling asbestos-containing products or working with their removal. But secondary exposure occurs when you come into contact with someone who works in an asbestos-related job. This is because workers bring home silicate fibres on their clothing, hair or skin, putting others at risk of inhalation or ingestion. 

If the ACMs are in good condition, they do not cause any problems, and you can leave them untreated.

Associated Health Disorders to Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos induces numerous health problems that primarily affect the respiratory system. However, one of the most concerning aspects of linked diseases is the long latency period. Symptoms do not appear until decades of exposure and significant tissue damage, making early detection challenging. 

Every year approx. 255,000 people lose their lives due to asbestos exposure at work around the globe.

Inflammation and Scarring of Lung Tissues — Asbestosis

A serious and chronic lung disease resulting from the inhalation of asbestos fibres over an extended period. Asbestosis is an inflammatory response and subsequent scarring of the lung tissues due to the accumulation of particles in the organ. Its most cases arise from the occupation of silicate minerals, particularly those who have been working in industries prior to the 1980s. Its symptoms typically develop slowly and may not appear until 10 to 40 years after initial exposure. Commonly people experience

• Shortness of breath 
• Persistent dry caught
• Chest tightness or pain
• Clubbing of fingers

While not cancerous, asbestosis can severely impact lung function or lead to respiratory failure in advanced stages. 

Malignant Cancer of Protective Organ Linings — Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that is primarily associated with asbestos exposure. It affects the protective lining covering the lungs and other vital organs called mesothelium or pleura. The prognosis of the problem is poor, with many patients experiencing a shortage of viable treatment options. Mesothelioma takes 20 to 50 years to develop after initial contact of asbestos. The disease is classified based on the tumour location, so its symptoms vary

• Pleural mesothelioma— breathing difficulty, unexplained chest discomfort, unintentional weight loss, extreme tiredness, high temperature.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma—abdominal swelling, gastrointestinal issues, nausea.

Uncontrolled Cellular Damage— Lung Cancer

Inhaling microscopic asbestos fibres significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Individuals who smoke in combination with mineral exposure face even higher risks, with evidence showing that the interaction can lead to increased tumour growth. Fibres lodged in lung tissue cause cellular damage over time, multiplying the carcinogenic effect.  Lung cancer manifests in 15 to 35 years following the asbestos exposure. The symptoms are most likely the same as the other asbestos-associated disorders  and cancers:

• Chronic cough
• Breathing issues
• Sharp or dull chest pain
• Wheezing.
• Coughing up blood
• Feeling very tired all the time
• Unexpected weight loss

The rising incidence of lung cancer among asbestos-exposed workers highlights the importance of prevention and early detection.

Abnormal Changes in Pleura Membrane — Pleural Diseases

Asbestos exposure can lead to non-cancerous conditions affecting the pleura (the lining around the lungs). These include multiple disorders like pleural plaques, effusion, or diffuse thickening, which impair respiratory function. While not fatal, these problems can cause severe discomfort and, if not addressed promptly, lead to other life-threatening asbestos diseases.

Prevent Asbestos-Induced Risks by Safe Managing

Protect yourself from the serious health hazards of asbestos exposure. While demolishing or renovating any older structure, hire certified and well-equipped professionals to identify the presence of asbestos and safely remove it. Avoid attempting removal on your own, as this can release harmful fibres into the air.

Wear protective clothing and masks if you work in environments with potential asbestos exposure. Properly dispose of all contaminated materials in accordance with local regulations. Be aware of yourself and others about the dangers of the mineral and take early interventions. Those having higher exposure levels to asbestos must perform regular medical checkups to diagnose any medical condition at the initial stage and do medications beforehand.

Conclusion

Asbestos exposure remains an essential public concern due to its associated fatal health diseases. Inhaling the microscopic fibres of this substance puts people at risk of untreatable asbestosis, malignant lung cancers or other multiple conditions that impair normal organ functioning. Understanding the common places where there is a chance of asbestos presence and getting rid of safe, professional removal is necessary for anyone to mitigate the related risks.