Asbestosis Information and Resources

Cause of Asbestosis

Asbestosis is caused by inhaling asbestos. Much like mesothelioma, asbestos fibers can damage to the lungs of a person who breathes them. Asbestosis is a respiratory illness characterized by an extensive scarring of lung tissue. Inhalation of asbestos dust and fibers can cause fluid to build up between the two pleural layers of the lungs. This accumulation of fluid is called a noncancerous asbestos effusion, and is benign.

The causes of Asbestosis can be linked to the extensive use of the mineral in the early potion of the 1900s. Its use was widespread until the mid 1970’s, primarily as an insulator and fire retardant. Most people were exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk for asbestosis and mesothelioma, in the course of their work with asbestos in factories and manufacturing plants.

Asbestos comes in two basic types: amphibole and chrysotile. Both are dangerous, despite some studies which suggested than chrysotile may be less harmful. Asbestos fibers, which can only be seen under a microscope, once inhaled, are very difficult for the body to get rid of, which is why they are so dangerous.

Even a single exposure to asbestos can cause asbestosis or mesothelioma. However, lengthier exposure proves a more serious risk, as the amount of asbestos inhaled builds up and can lead to serious problems. Before the federal and state regulation of asbestos, the family mebers of asbestos workers were exposed to significant amounts of asbestos dust and fibers, brought home on the clothing of the workers. Asbestos in not illegal in the United States, so there are still some jobs in which workers come in contact with asbestos.

Current and traditional occupations with a higher risk of exposure to asbestos include:

• Building contractors, especially those working in older buildings where asbestos may have been used extensively
• Workers who remediate old buildings
• People working with brakes and clutches, which often use asbestos because it is highly resistant to heath
• Mining occupations
• Railroad yards or oil refinery workers

Living near to factories, refineries, shipyards, or plants that use asbestos is also at risk of asbestos exposure related illnesses. Asbestosis is found in about 1 out of every 10,000 people.

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