Asbestos insulation is one of the most common forms of asbestos products, and it’s widely used in homes and offices worldwide because of its excellent insulating properties. But despite how common it is, many people don’t know that asbestos can cause serious health problems if exposed to it on an ongoing basis — including cancer, lung damage, and even death. So if you think your home or office may contain asbestos insulation, you should immediately call in an asbestos inspector to determine whether you’re at risk of developing any health problems caused by exposure to this toxic material.
1) Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Studies have shown that asbestos fibers can increase your risk of developing lung cancer by as much as 90%. Therefore, if you have been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to get tested by a qualified asbestos testing service. Exposure may also lead to other diseases, including pleural plaques, chronic bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. In addition, it is possible for people who were not even exposed to asbestos but are genetically predisposed or were born with certain conditions (like mesothelioma) to develop these diseases too.
2) Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Approximately 3,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. Symptoms can take decades to develop and may not appear until the disease is in its advanced stages. There is no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options are available to manage symptoms and extend life expectancy. Therefore, early detection is critical for those exposed to asbestos. Asbestos testing services can help identify exposure and allow for early intervention.
3) Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. The symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. Asbestosis can lead to serious health complications, including lung cancer. Therefore, if you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to get tested by a qualified asbestos testing service.
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4) Other Tumors
In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure has also been linked to other types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, laryngeal cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer. Asbestos exposure has also been linked to an increased risk of developing benign tumors, such as those in the pleura (the lining around the lungs). Inhaling small amounts of asbestos fibers can cause chronic inflammation that can lead to a tumor.
5) Pleural Plaques
Pleural plaques are one of the most common effects of asbestos exposure. They are benign, non-cancerous growths that form on the lungs and chest cavity lining. While they do not usually cause symptoms, they can be associated with a dry cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Doctors will typically take X-rays of your chest, complete a physical exam, and ask about your medical history. The best way to avoid asbestos-related diseases is through asbestos inspection; this includes checking for any airborne asbestos fibers in your home or workplace.
6) Pleural Effusion
One of the most common health risks associated with asbestos exposure is the development of pleural effusion. This condition occurs when fluid builds up between the lungs and the chest wall, causing the lungs to collapse. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. If left untreated, pleural effusion can lead to death.
7) Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause many symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In addition, asbestos exposure has been linked to an increased risk of Crohn’s disease, although the exact mechanism by which asbestos may contribute to the disease’s development is unknown.
8) Asthma and Bronchitis
Asbestos exposure has been linked to both asthma and bronchitis. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that people exposed to asbestos were more likely to develop asthma than those not disclosed. The study also found that people exposed to asbestos were more likely to develop bronchitis. A 2012 report from the Environmental Working Group suggests that as many as 1 in 10 adults have chronic asbestos-related illnesses such as scarring of the lungs or respiratory cancer due to exposure at work or home. Your family’s health needs to ensure you are getting an asbestos inspection before buying a home so you can be aware of any potential dangers and get them taken care of immediately.
9) Autoimmune Diseases
One of the most serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure is the development of autoimmune diseases. When the body is exposed to asbestos fibers, it produces antibodies to fight off the threads. However, sometimes the body produces too many antibodies, which can lead to autoimmune diseases like lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
