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 Asbestos

Definition

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that has been used due to its fiber strength and heat resistance properties. It can be found in a variety of building materials and commercial products for insulation and as a fire retardant material. ¹

Sources of Asbestos

Asbestos can be found in attic and wall insulation containing vermiculite, vinyl flooring, roofing and siding shingles, textured paints on walls, hot water pipes that are coated with asbestos blanket or tape, and in heat resistant fabrics. Older homes and buildings, especially prior to the 1980s, are more likely to have asbestos-containing products since asbestos manufacturing became more federally regulated around that time. Similar to lead in paint, if the asbestos-containing product is intact and undisturbed, then it is less likely you’ll be exposed. However, when a home containing asbestos is renovated or remodeled, or if the asbestos is disturbed, tiny asbestos fibers may be released into the air where they can live for long periods of time. ¹ ² 

Health Impacts

The most well-known health impacts of asbestos include lung diseases such as lung cancer, a rare form of lung cancer called mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The tiny asbestos fibers are able to bypass some of the body’s natural defenses and make their way into the lungs where they can accumulate over time. ¹

Steps for Prevention and Remediation ¹
  • Leave the asbestos-containing products alone if they are intact. 
  • Periodically inspect material with suspected asbestos for breakdown or damage. 

If concerned with asbestos exposure, hire trained professionals for testing, repair/removal of asbestos. Search the State Asbestos Contact for the appropriate contact. 

Additional Resources

US EPA. Protect your Family from Exposure to Asbestos. https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/protect-your-family-exposures-asbestos

Reference List

 

1. American Lung Association. Asbestos. Available at: https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/asbestos. Accessed July 3, 2024.

2. EPA. Learn About Asbestos. Available at:https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn-about-asbestos#asbestos. Accessed July 3, 2024. 

 

Combustion

Combustion, the process of burning fuels for energy, is used in two-thirds of US households for heating, cooking, and drying, emitting pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, which can cause both immediate irritation and long-term health issues such as lung disease and cancer.


Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants, including mold, pests, and animal dander, originate from sources like people, pets, and plants, and can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and infectious illnesses in the home.


Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), emitted from household items like cleaners, paints, and furnishings, are often found in higher concentrations indoors and can cause immediate health issues like irritation and headaches, as well as long-term damage to the kidney, liver, and central nervous system.


Lead

Lead is a toxic heavy metal found in household paint, dust, soil, and water, particularly in homes built before 1978. Exposure can cause acute effects like seizures and anemia, and chronic effects such as cognitive impairments, reproductive complications and irreversible nervous system damage, especially in children.


Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through cracks in walls and foundations, leading to dangerous indoor levels. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the leading cause among non-smokers, necessitating testing and remediation in high-risk areas.


Current Page: Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber used for its strength and heat resistance in building materials and products. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air, leading to serious lung diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.


Pesticides

Pesticides are toxic chemicals used in various forms like sprays and powders, and are found in 75% of U.S. households. These chemicals, including insecticides and rodenticides, can pose health risks, so it is crucial to assess specific products and their associated hazards.


Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are chemicals used to slow or prevent the spread of fire in various household products. These substances, which can persist in the environment and accumulate in the body, may cause health issues such as endocrine disruption, cognitive impairments, respiratory problems, and increased cancer risk.


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