Lung Cancer
Asbestos-caused Lung Cancer: Understanding Risks and Prevention
Lung cancer is a devastating disease that claims the lives of millions of people worldwide each year. While smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, exposure to certain pollutants, such as asbestos, can also significantly increase the risk of developing this deadly disease. Asbestos is known for its heat-resistant properties and was widely used…
Read MoreSecondhand Asbestos Exposure Prevalent Among Steelworkers’ Families
Secondhand asbestos exposure can occur when an individual encounters asbestos fibers through the clothing or equipment of someone who has been working with asbestos-containing materials. This is also known as Bystander Exposure. Asbestos could be found throughout steel mills which included blast furnaces, coke ovens, basic oxygen furnaces, strip mills, and the open-hearth department. Heat…
Read MorePittsburgh Asbestos History
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has a long history of industrialization and manufacturing, which has put many individuals in the area at risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos was widely used in building materials and other products until the 1980s because of its durability, insulation properties, and fire resistance. However, asbestos fibers can be inhaled or ingested and can…
Read MoreAsbestos Duct Wrap
Asbestos was a popular building material in which its unique fibrous structure made it ideal for insulation and fireproofing. Most buildings and homes built before the 1980s contain asbestos insulation in the walls and attic. HVAC system ductwork, registers, and pipe systems may have been wrapped with asbestos duct wrap. It was not until the 1970s…
Read MoreFriable Vs. Non-Friable Asbestos
Asbestos was used extensively in buildings and materials for decades until the 1980s because of its unique characteristics. Asbestos is affordable, durable, and fire and heat-resistant, making it a desirable ingredient for construction, manufacturing, and certain materials. Unfortunately, asbestos is also hazardous to human health. What is Friability?Friability is the likelihood of asbestos-containing materials breaking…
Read More