Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure occurs when individuals inhale or ingest tiny fibers from asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once commonly used in construction and insulation due to its fire-resistant properties. When materials containing asbestos are disturbed or damaged, these fibers can become airborne, posing serious health risks. Long-term exposure is linked to serious diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs. Regulations now limit asbestos use, but it remains a concern in older buildings, necessitating careful management and removal to protect public health.