Asbestos Exposure

People who work with asbestos containing materials on a regular basis account for the highest levels of asbestos exposure. Certain jobs and work environments, like mining, factory work, ship building, and construction work, are more likely to result in asbestos exposure than others. Studies have even shown that even the family members of asbestos workers have suffered asbestos exposure from fibers brought home on the workers' clothing.

Asbestos exposure can also occur in the home from building materials wearing down and releasing fibers into the air. It can occur among people who live near an asbestos mine. Drinking water may even contain asbestos fibers. This happens when:

• Fibers erode from natural deposits or piles of waste asbestos and enter the water
• Fibers enter water from asbestos-containing cement pipes used to carry drinking water
• Water is filtered through asbestos-containing filters.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires water suppliers to test water samples regularly. Suppliers must notify the public via newspapers, radio, TV, and other means if levels are higher than allowed.

The biggest risk factor for developing the deadly cancer mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. The risk is directly related to how much exposure a person had and the length of time the person was exposed to asbestos.

The American Cancer Society advises that the best way to protect yourself and your family from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related health problems is to limit asbestos exposure at home and at work. Educating yourself about the kinds of products and environments commonly associated with asbestos may help you determine your risk.