Asbestos is a Pollutant, Government Agency Says

Naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) has recently been deemed a dangerous pollutant, according to a study published in an October 2008 issue of Chemical Science and conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

According to researchers from the organization, naturally occurring asbestos is the name that describes "the silicate minerals serpentine and amphibole" that can form extremely thin crystals in patterns similar to that of cotton or silk, with extreme parallel alignment and, when crushed or broken, can cause asbestosis among individuals who inhale the particles.

What is Asbestosis?

When the lining of the lungs becomes inflamed asbestosis is occurring; it can also attack the lining of the internal organs. It is often difficult to determine asbestosis signs and symptoms, which is why it's important to locate a medical professional immediately if asbestos exposure may have occurred. Signs and symptoms of asbestosis include the following, according to the Mayo Clinic:

* coughing

* chest pain

* finger clubbing in some cases, which is swelling of tissues beneath the fingernail

* decreased tolerance for physical activity

* shortness of breath, both during periods of exertion and periods of rest

Unfortunately asbestosis symptoms do not become apparent for up to 20 to 30 years after initial exposure, which can often be too late for many victims to find adequate assistance in reversing the scarring and damage done within the lungs from asbestos fibers.

Asbestos Risks and Dangers

Naturally occurring asbestos may not pose a threat to all individuals who come in contact with it, according to the Chemical Science article, which explained that the "nature of the soil and local climate" also play an important role in exposure. Erosion of asbestos and these activities include:

* mining

* quarrying

* excavation for construction

* farming

* landscaping

* gardening

The researchers suggest that once NOA is discovered, a risk assessment of exposure to a community must be determined, in which case the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for removing and regulating asbestos.

However, it is important for those who have worked with or been exposed to asbestos to understand the following risks, which may increase the severity of an asbestos case or put others at risk:

exposure times will have an effect on asbestosis or mesothelioma development, although individuals with minimum exposure have the same asbestos risks

* symptoms of asbestos are often delayed, which is why initial exposure should not be overlooked

* family members are also at risk if clothing, shoes covered is asbestos are brought into the house for others to inhale, which is known as paraoccupational exposure

* employees who have worked with shipbuilding, mining, milling, construction, brake repair, demolition, drywall and firefighters may all be at risk for potential exposure to asbestos and should consult a medical professional as a safety precaution

Finding Mesothelioma Help

Once an individual becomes diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer, they can quickly become overwhelmed with what to do and how to seek the appropriate medical and legal counsel to better their situation as soon as possible. Contacting a medical professional is extremely important as it may be possible to treat symptoms of the disease by participating in clinical trials.

In addition to a patient arming themselves with mesothelioma information and educational materials and receiving medical assistance, they may also find it an option to consult an experienced medical law firm that can locate a specialized mesothelioma lawyer.

Creating a mesothelioma lawsuit can earn monetary compensation to pay for costly bills associated with mesothelioma cancer.