Protect Against Mesothelioma by Avoiding Asbestos
Mesothelioma is one of the rarest types of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is mainly caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber that was widely used in various industries before it was ultimately banned in the United States in the 1980s.
Although the use of asbestos has been significantly reduced over the years, there are still some products and materials that contain traces of this dangerous mineral. Therefore, it’s important to understand how to protect yourself from mesothelioma by avoiding asbestos.
Here are some practical tips to help you minimize your exposure to asbestos:
1. Identify areas where asbestos may be present
The most common places where asbestos can be found include buildings constructed before the 1980s, especially those that were built in the early to mid-20th century. If you’re moving into an older home or apartment, it’s essential to have it inspected by a professional who can identify any potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
There are several types of ACMs that were commonly used in construction, such as roofing and siding shingles, insulation, and floor tiles. Other common products that may contain asbestos include automotive brake pads and clutches, heat-resistant fabrics, and certain types of adhesives and caulking.
2. Don’t disturb asbestos-containing materials
If you suspect that there may be asbestos in your home or workplace, it’s important to leave it alone and avoid disturbing the material. This is because asbestos fibers can easily become airborne when disturbed, which can lead to inhalation and subsequent health problems, including mesothelioma.
To avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials, you should avoid drilling, sawing, sanding, or otherwise damaging these materials. If you need to do any renovation or repair work, it’s best to hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor who can safely remove and dispose of the ACMs.
3. Wear protective gear when dealing with asbestos
If you must work with or around asbestos-containing materials, it’s crucial to wear protective gear to minimize your exposure to the fibers. This equipment includes things like respirators, gloves, and disposable coveralls.
Keep in mind that wearing a dust mask or surgical mask is not enough protection against asbestos. These masks may filter out larger particles, but they won’t protect you from inhaling the tiny asbestos fibers.
4. Get regular health checkups
Even if you haven’t been exposed to asbestos in many years, it’s still important to get regular checkups with your healthcare provider. This is because the symptoms of mesothelioma may not become apparent until several decades after exposure.
By monitoring your health and getting regular screenings, you can catch any potential health problems early on and take steps to address them. Be sure to tell your doctor if you suspect that you may have been exposed to asbestos, even if it was many years ago.
5. Be cautious when purchasing new products
Although asbestos is now banned in the United States, there are still some imported products that may contain trace amounts of the mineral. Some of these products include certain types of pottery, as well as some children’s toys and crayons.
To minimize your risk of exposure, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing new products. Look for products that have been certified as asbestos-free or that have been tested for asbestos content.
6. Take precautions when working in or around older buildings
If you work in a building that was constructed before the 1980s or that contains older materials, it’s important to take precautions to minimize your exposure to asbestos. This may include avoiding disturbing any potential ACMs, using protective gear when necessary, and reporting any suspected exposure to your employer.
It’s also important to be aware of any asbestos-related regulations and guidelines, such as OSHA’s Asbestos Standard for general industry (29 CFR 1910.1001). These regulations mandate proper training and safety procedures for workers who may be at risk of asbestos exposure.
7. Educate yourself and others about asbestos
The more you know about asbestos and its dangers, the better equipped you will be to protect yourself and others from exposure. Educate yourself about the potential sources of asbestos, the symptoms of mesothelioma, and the best practices for avoiding exposure.
You can also share this information with others who may be at risk of exposure, such as your family members, coworkers, and friends. By working together, you can help reduce the overall risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
In conclusion, mesothelioma is a rare but deadly disease that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Although asbestos is now banned in many parts of the world, it’s still important to take steps to protect yourself from exposure to this dangerous mineral. By identifying potential sources of asbestos, avoiding disturbing the material, using protective gear when necessary, and educating yourself and others about the risks, you can minimize your risk of developing mesothelioma and other related health problems.