Asbestos Health Risks

When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can stay trapped in the lungs for decades, causing serious diseases over time.

Major diseases linked to asbestos exposure

1. Mesothelioma

• Rare cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen

• Almost always caused by asbestos exposure

• Often appears 20–50 years after exposure

2. Lung Cancer

• Risk increases significantly with asbestos exposure

• Smoking + asbestos exposure multiplies the risk

3. Asbestosis

• Chronic lung disease caused by scarring of lung tissue

• Leads to breathing problems and reduced lung function

4. Pleural Disease

• Thickening or plaques on the lung lining

• Can cause chest pain and breathing difficulty

Mostly in buildings built before the 1980s

Examples include:

• Pipe insulation

• Popcorn ceilings

• Vinyl floor tiles (9x9 vinyl tiles)

• Roofing shingles

• Cement siding

• Spray-on fireproofing

• HVAC duct insulation

• Boiler insulation description

• Cutting or drilling into old building materials

• Sanding or scraping walls, ceilings, or floors

• Demolishing or renovating older buildings (built before ~1980–1990)

• Handling damaged insulation around pipes or boilers

• Breaking old floor tiles or ceiling tiles

• Disturbing crumbling or friable materials

⚠️ Key rule

If asbestos-containing material is intact and undisturbed, it is usually less dangerous. The risk happens when fibers become airborne and can be inhaled.

🛑 What to do instead

• Do not disturb the material

• Have it tested by professionals

• Use trained asbestos abatement workers for removal

✅ Simple idea:
Avoid asbestos whenever work could break, cut, or damage materials that might contain it.

Mold releases tiny spores into the air. When inhaled or touched, these spores can trigger immune reactions or irritation.

People at higher risk

• People with asthma

• Those with mold allergies

• Children and elderly

• People with weak immune systems

• People with chronic lung disease

Possible health effects:

• Allergic reactions

• Asthma attacks

• Lung infections (rare but possible in immunocompromised people)

• Irritation of eyes, skin, throat, and lungs

Even if you can't see it:

• Musty or earthy smell

• Water damage or stains

• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall

• Increased allergy symptoms indoors

• Bathrooms – showers, tubs, and ceilings

• Kitchens – under sinks and around appliances

• Basements – walls, floors, and stored items

• Windows – window sills and frames

• Walls and ceilings – where there are leaks or water stains

• HVAC vents and ducts

• Laundry rooms – behind washers or near dryers

• Attics – roof areas with poor ventilation