How is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos is a flame retardant formerly used in numerous buildings, including schools and houses. Asbestos has been discovered to cause serious health problems in some people who are exposed to it, including cancer.HistoryAlthough asbestos was used in construction for almost a century, its effects on the human body were not discovered until the 1960s and ’70s. Asbestos has been used in siding, shingles, insulation, wall coatings and other parts of buildings.MesotheliomaMesothelioma is a type of cancer that can result from inhaling asbestos over an extended time. Mesothelioma develops in the protective covering of internal organs.FibersAsbestos is a fibrous substance that, when disturbed, releases particles into the air that can remain there indefinitely. When these are inhaled, they cause inflammation in the throat and can lead to tissue damage.Other RisksAsbestos is also associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer, throat cancer, kidney, gallbladder and other forms of cancer
