Asbestos causes approximately 40,000 deaths annually in the U.S. and is linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other cancers. Despite its dangers, asbestos isn’t entirely banned in the U.S., making it vital to know how to identify and avoid it. The only catch is that you cannot see asbestos with your naked eye, and it’s odorless; that is why it is so easy to inhale. So, how can you identify it in your home or workplace? Here is a guide on what to look out for (and stay away from) to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos
is a cluster of six natural fibrous materials, which, although highly toxic, is
valued because of its robustness and heat and electricity resistance. Asbestos
was mainly used throughout the 20th century in construction and
manufacturing. While asbestos was very appealing back then, its nearly
invisible fibers can be easily inhaled, posing serious health risks, including
causing mesothelioma. Damaged asbestos materials may look like tiny, fuzzy fibers
resembling frayed fabric. However, the presence of visible fibers does not
necessarily indicate asbestos. Testing is the only way to confirm if asbestos
is present.
Identifying Asbestos in Your Environment
Here
are two signs that your home or workplace may have asbestos:
Your House Was Built Between the 1940s and 1980s
If
your home was built before the early 1980s and has not undergone significant
remodeling, it likely contains asbestos. While these houses hold a vintage
charm that you may not find in modern homes, asbestos can be present,
especially in areas with insulation, floor tiles, popcorn ceilings, siding,
roofing shingles, and old appliances. Intact surfaces may not be dangerous, but
damaged ones can release hazardous fibers into the air. If you suspect
something in your house is asbestos, don’t attempt to handle it yourself.
Instead, contact a professional to test and address the issue safely.
Older
Office Buildings
Older
office buildings are yet another common place where asbestos may lurk. Asbestos
may be found in pipe insulation, boilers, ductwork, ceiling tiles, or partition
walls. If you work in industries like construction, manufacturing, or
shipbuilding, especially in environments established before asbestos
regulations, being observant is essential. Regular inspections and proper
maintenance can help spot asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that might go
unnoticed.
How to Handle Asbestos in Your Home or Workplace
If
you suspect your house or workplace contains asbestos or testing confirms its
presence, there are three ways to handle it:
- Leave it Alone: If the asbestos-containing material or surface is not
damaged and unlikely to be disturbed, it is best to leave it as is.
However, keep children away and monitor any signs of damage.
- Repair or Encapsulate it: For materials that are intact but at risk of minor
damage, encapsulation can help. This involves sealing the surface with a
coating or sealant to prevent fibers from becoming airborne. For instance,
you can encapsulate asbestos tiles by covering them with new flooring
instead of removing them.
- Remove it: If the asbestos material is severely damaged or
renovation work will disturb it, it’s best to remove it. Ensure that a
licensed professional does this.
Can Teenagers Be Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma
occurs because of asbestos exposure. The people at significant risk of
developing mesothelioma are those whose jobs expose them to asbestos, such as
construction workers. Also, often such people develop mesothelioma later in
life. This is because mesothelioma has a long latency period. Mesothelioma can
take decades to develop after asbestos exposure. However, if you are wondering
if teenagers can be diagnosed with mesothelioma, the answer is yes, they can.
While mesothelioma among teenagers is rare, there have been cases of
mesothelioma in teenagers.
It
is important not to assume that young people cannot develop mesothelioma. It is
crucial to be wary of doctors who refuse to consider the possibility that young
people could develop mesothelioma, as that could result in a delayed diagnosis.
Below, we discuss some of the main ways children can get exposed to asbestos
and the symptoms of mesothelioma in teenagers.
Many Old Houses in the U.S. Contain Asbestos
America
has a long history of asbestos use. Asbestos has been in use in the United
States since the 19th century. However, in the 1970s, the U.S. began
regulating asbestos after studies linked asbestos exposure to severe illnesses
like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This led to the EPA and OSHA
implementing strict rules and regulations. However, despite reduced use,
asbestos remains in many old buildings, including homes. Asbestos was used in
many homes because of its fireproofing and insulation properties. In the United
States, many homes built before the 1980s contain asbestos. Asbestos materials
in homes that may contain asbestos include roofing, insulation, and textured
paint.
Is it Safe to Live in a House Containing Asbestos?
The
mere presence of asbestos in a home does not pose a risk. Living in a house
that contains asbestos can pose serious health risks if the asbestos-contaminated
materials are damaged or disturbed, releasing fibers into the air. Inhaling
these fibers can result in serious health issues. Even minor deterioration or
renovations can be risky. Children are especially vulnerable due to their
developing bodies.
What to Do if You Buy a House Containing Asbestos
If you purchase a house containing asbestos, do not attempt to handle the suspected area alone. Handling asbestos on your own can lead to exposure, which can then lead to the development of a severe illness. Instead, you should contact an asbestos abatement company. This is a company that specializes in identifying, containing, and removing asbestos-containing materials from buildings and structures. After contacting these professionals, they will assess potential asbestos-containing materials. They may take samples to analyze in a lab to confirm the presence of asbestos in your home. If asbestos is found, the specialists will help you determine what steps to take next. Depending on the findings, you may be advised to consider containment, encapsulation, or complete removal of the asbestos-containing materials using specialized techniques. Allowing asbestos abatement specialists to deal with the asbestos in your home ensures compliance with safety regulations. It protects you and other occupants from the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
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