How are health risks associated with asbestos exposure?
Asbestos fibers must be inhaled to cause disease. Disturbing asbestos containing material or dust containing asbestos will result in exposure unless precautions are taken. When insulation containing asbestos is disturbed, lightweight asbestos fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled. In general, the more you are exposed to asbestos, the greater your risk of developing related diseases. Exposure may not have immediate health consequences, however. In many cases, individuals do not develop related diseases for years or even decades after exposure.
