Asbestos is a heat- and fire-resistant mineral that was commonly used in building materials like flooring, ceilings, roofs, and automotive parts. It wasn't until the 1950s that the connection between asbestos exposure and health became clear.
Asbestos is banned in 55 countries. It continues to be imported and used in the United States but at lower levels than in the past.
How are people exposed to asbestos?
Asbestos exposure happens in two main ways: by breathing the toxic particles in, or by accidentally swallowing (ingesting) them. These two types of exposure are associated with different types of asbestos. All asbestos exposure is dangerous.
When tiny bits of asbestos get into the air, they can be breathed directly into the lungs of people nearby. Types of asbestos with sharp fibers that can be easily inhaled include:
- Actinolite asbestos was used in products like cement, insulation, paint, and drywall.
- Amosite asbestos (brown asbestos) was commonly used in cement, insulation, roofing, and other construction materials.
- Anthophyllite asbestos is a less common type that can be found in cement and insulation materials.
- Crocidolite asbestos (blue asbestos) is the most dangerous type. The fine fibers are easy to inhale. It was used in cement, tiles, and insulation.
- Tremolite asbestos is heat-resistant and can be woven into fabric. It is no longer mined but was previously used in products like paint, sealants, insulation, roofing, and plumbing materials.
Asbestos fibers can also get into the mouth and be accidentally swallowed. Chrysotile asbestos (white asbestos) can be inhaled but is the most common type associated with swallowing.
Although some companies argue that the chrysotile asbestos mined today is safe when used in certain products, health professionals maintain that all forms of asbestos are cancer-causing, and no level of exposure is safe.