Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once hailed for its versatility and fire-resistant properties, has shown itself to be a huge threat to the health of humans. While its use has been banned in many countries, including the United States, many homes and buildings still have materials in them that contain asbestos, and thus, can lead to problems related to asbestos exposure. An asbestos testing company can help you determine if there is asbestos in your building. Here are three health-related problems that asbestos can cause.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, is the most well-known consequence of asbestos exposure. According to Asbestos.com, at least 90% of all mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure. This malignant disease primarily affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Inhalation of asbestos fibers, often occurring in occupational settings like construction, shipbuilding, and mining, is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Unfortunately, symptoms often manifest decades after exposure, making early diagnosis and treatment challenging.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. When inhaled, these microscopic fibers accumulate in the lungs, leading to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Over time, the scarring can reduce lung function, causing breathlessness, persistent coughing, and chest tightness. Although asbestosis is irreversible, early detection can help manage symptoms and slow down its progression.

Lung Cancer

Prolonged asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. In fact, according to the National Cancer Institute, individuals exposed to asbestos are several times more likely to develop this life-threatening disease compared to those without exposure. The combined effects of smoking and asbestos exposure further amplify the risk, making it crucial for at-risk individuals to undergo regular screenings and quit smoking to minimize their chances of developing lung cancer.

The consequences of asbestos exposure can be severe. With the potential to cause devastating diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, it is essential to determine if your space has asbestos. An asbestos testing company can help you determine if any of the materials in your home contain asbestos. From there, you can take steps to properly and thoroughly remove the asbestos from your space. If you are looking to hire an asbestos testing company for your home or commercial building, we are here to help you. Contact EnviroBrite Inspections, Inc today to schedule an appointment.