Why These Asbestos-Related Diseases Are Still a Danger Today
Many people think of asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma as issues of the past, believing that the dangers of asbestos exposure have largely been eliminated due to modern regulations. However, despite the reduced use of asbestos in many countries and industries, both asbestosis and mesothelioma remain significant health risks today.
In this article, we will explore why these asbestos-related diseases are still a danger in the modern world, the risks of continued exposure, and why it’s crucial to remain vigilant.
What are Asbestosis and Mesothelioma?
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, which over time cause scarring in the lungs. This scarring can lead to shortness of breath, chest pain, and reduced lung function. Asbestosis typically develops years or even decades after the initial exposure, making it a latent but serious threat to those who have worked in environments where asbestos was present.
Mesothelioma, on the other hand, is a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue covering many of the internal organs, most commonly the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma). Like asbestosis, it is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres. However, mesothelioma is far more deadly, with a poor prognosis and a very long latency period, sometimes taking 20 to 50 years to manifest. That’s why it is still a major health hazard today. There were 2,257 mesothelioma deaths in Great Britain in 2022. That’s more than the number of people killed in road traffic accidents.
While asbestos use has been significantly reduced, these diseases continue to affect thousands of people each year, often decades after their initial exposure.
Why Do People Think These Are Historic Problems?
The use of asbestos reached its peak in the mid-20th century, particularly in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. As the dangers of asbestos exposure became well-known in the 1970s and 1980s, many countries implemented strict regulations or outright bans on asbestos use.
This has led to a perception that asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma are relics of the past, primarily affecting those who were exposed decades ago. However, the long latency period of these diseases and the continued presence of asbestos in many environments mean that they remain significant health risks today.
Why Are Asbestosis and Mesothelioma Still a Danger?
1. Asbestos in Older Buildings
One of the primary reasons asbestos remains a danger today is the presence of asbestos-containing materials in older buildings. Homes, schools, offices, and public buildings constructed before the 1990s often contain asbestos in insulation, roofing, tiles, and piping. As long as these materials are undisturbed, they may not pose an immediate risk. However, during renovations, repairs, or demolitions, asbestos fibres can be released into the air, exposing workers and residents to the toxic material.
Because mesothelioma and asbestosis can develop many years after exposure, people working in or living near these older structures may still face a significant risk.
2. Occupational Exposure
Certain professions, particularly those in construction, demolition, and shipbuilding, continue to be at risk for asbestos exposure. Workers involved in the maintenance or demolition of older structures are at high risk if proper safety measures are not in place. In some industries, asbestos is still used in products like brake linings and roofing tiles, further exposing workers to the fibres.
Moreover, many of the protections that were put in place decades ago are now being challenged by lax enforcement or a lack of awareness, leaving a new generation of workers vulnerable to asbestos-related diseases.
3. DIY Home Renovations
The increasing popularity of do-it-yourself (DIY) home renovations has inadvertently exposed more people to asbestos. Homeowners, particularly those living in properties built before the 1990s, may not realise that their homes contain asbestos. Without proper safety precautions, tasks like removing old insulation, tearing down walls, or replacing flooring can release asbestos fibres into the air.
Unlike professional contractors, most homeowners lack the expertise or equipment to safely handle asbestos-containing materials, putting them and their families at risk of developing mesothelioma or asbestosis in the future.
4. Environmental Exposure
In addition to workplace or home exposure, environmental asbestos exposure can still occur. This is particularly true for people living near old asbestos mines, factories, or industrial sites where asbestos was heavily used. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes or building collapses, can also disturb asbestos-containing materials, releasing dangerous fibres into the environment.
People who live in or near these areas may not be aware of the ongoing risks they face from asbestos exposure.
5. Imported Asbestos-Containing Products
While many countries have implemented bans or restrictions on asbestos use, some countries continue to produce asbestos-containing products, such as cement, tiles, and automotive parts. These products can make their way into countries with stricter regulations, posing a risk to consumers and workers. In some cases, these materials are used in the construction industry without clear identification, exposing workers to asbestos unknowingly.
The global nature of trade makes it difficult to fully eliminate asbestos exposure, especially in regions where regulations may not be consistently enforced.
Mesothelioma: The Silent Killer
Although asbestosis is a serious condition, mesothelioma is often the more feared asbestos-related disease due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The disease often does not present symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage, making early detection and treatment difficult. Even with modern treatments, most people diagnosed with mesothelioma have a life expectancy of only 12 to 21 months.
This makes it all the more important to take preventive measures, especially in environments where asbestos may still be present. Unfortunately, the latency period for mesothelioma means that those exposed today may not see the consequences for decades, by which time it may be too late for effective treatment.
Protecting Yourself from Asbestos-Related Diseases
Despite the decreased use of asbestos in modern construction, the risks of asbestosis and mesothelioma remain real and ongoing. To protect yourself and others from these diseases, consider the following precautions:
- Get an asbestos survey. If you are responsible for the maintenance of any building that is not a home, you are legally responsible for the management of the risk of asbestos in that building. Failure to meet your responsibilities can result in criminal convictions, fines and even jail. Managing the risks starts with an asbestos survey: our page on the subject will help you.
- Check for asbestos before renovations: If your home or workplace was built before the 1990s, it is important to have it inspected by a professional before any major work is done. This can prevent accidental exposure to asbestos-containing materials.
- Use licensed professionals for asbestos removal: Never attempt to remove or disturb asbestos-containing materials on your own. Always hire certified professionals who can safely manage the removal process.
- Protect workers in high-risk industries: Employers must ensure that workers have proper training, protective equipment, and safety protocols to minimise exposure to asbestos in industries where it may still be present.
- Be cautious of imported products: Be aware that some imported products may still contain asbestos. Always check regulations and ensure the materials you are using meet safety standards.