Children, the environment and cancer

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Specific environmental contaminants - III

Asbestos

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that is strong, heat resistant, and inexpensive. Chrysotile, or white asbestos, is the most commonly used form of asbestos in the world. It is found in almost all asbestos-based products available today, and is used in products such as building materials and water and sewer pipes.

Exposure to asbestos is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, possibly laryngeal cancer and cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, and other diseases.

Exposure is highest for people who mine asbestos or work with it in manufacturing, so the risk of developing cancer is also potentially the highest in these groups. Those who are exposed to asbestos and who use tobacco are at even greater risk of developing lung cancer.

The World Health Organization has not been able to determine whether there is any safe level of exposure to asbestos for humans (a safe level means the person exposed would not have an increased risk of cancer because of the exposure).

Researchers have identified safer alternatives for some uses of asbestos. However, since it is still possible to breathe in small particles while using alternatives to asbestos, safety precautions to protect workers must still be followed carefully when the products are being used.

For the general public, take the following precautions if you are handling small amounts of encapsulated asbestos:

* Consider hiring a contractor with experience in removing asbestos.

* Keep other people away and seal off the work area.

*Keep asbestos-containing materials intact. Do not break them up.

* Wear a good quality dust mask and overalls, which should be washed afterwards. Shower thoroughly after completing the job.

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