Asbestos removal is an important, yet tricky, process.  Currently, there are over 3,000 different manufactured products containing asbestos, each of which poses a serious health risk to anyone who is exposed to it.  In fact, it is estimated that 10,000 people die every year in the United States alone due to diseases related to asbestos.  Because asbestos removal is such a dangerous process, it is best left to professionals with the know-how and the skills necessary to remove it safely.  In addition, strict laws are in place at federal, state, and local levels in regards to the proper removal, handling, and disposal of asbestos.  All of these regulations are in place to help protect the environment and health of anyone dealing with asbestos removal. 

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma used to be considered to be a rare form of cancer.  Unfortunately, it is no longer thought of as rare, though it is still relatively uncommon.  In addition, malignant mesothelioma does not respond well to treatment, making it the most serious of all diseases related to asbestos.  Nearly every case of malignant mesothelioma is linked to asbestos exposure.  Those who worked in a place where they were routinely exposed to asbestos are prone to malignant mesothelioma, as well as the members of their household who have been exposed to asbestos from that person’s clothes.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is often confused with malignant mesothelioma, but the two cancers are not the same.  Symptoms may be similar, but where and how the cancer forms is different.  Nonetheless, lung cancer is the most common form of cancer related to asbestos to be found in those who currently smoke or who smoked in the past.

Pleural Disease

Pleural disease occurs when the lining of the lung, called the pleura, is scarred or thickened by calcification.  This can be seen on X-rays and usually does not cause cancer or lung impairment on its own.  If this disease is present, however, it indicates the person has been exposed to enough asbestos to lead to more serious diseases.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is caused by inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers and results in the scarring of lung tissue.  Some doctors use this term to describe all asbestos-related illnesses, but this is incorrect.  Asbestosis is its own illness and needs to be treated in its own way.  Diffuse pleural thickening, which is similar to pleura disease, is sometimes associated with asbestosis.  If the damage is extensive, it can lead to serious lung impairment.

Asbestos Warts

Asbestos warts occur when the sharp fibers of asbestos become lodged in the skin.   As a result, they become overgrown and cause benign growths that look similar to calluses.  While not necessarily harmful to the health, asbestos warts are unattractive and can be uncomfortable.

The many diseases and problems associated with asbestos are the reasons why asbestos removal should be left to the professionals.  Homes built before 1978, which is the year when asbestos was banned in the United States, may have asbestos present in the walls.  This is because it was a popular choice for insulation in homes and for making homes resistant to fire.  Therefore, special care must be taken when remodeling and working on a home built before this year to ensure household members are not exposed to asbestos.