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Visit the Mesothelioma Center site for information on mesothelioma. This site is dedicated to providing the most up to date information and support for those who suffer from the lung cancer mesothelioma, also known as asbestos cancer, or who know someone who does. We diligently seek new information and we are available 24 hours a day to help you find answers for your individual situation. You may e-mail us right now or call us at (412)-471-3980. |
Asbestos and Mesothelioma:Common Asbestos-Containing ProductsWhat is Asbestos?Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which has been used all over the world in a huge range of applications since its first discovery. Its chief physical properties are its durability and resistance to heat and combustion. It is an extremely fibrous mineral and mining, milling, processing, and use of asbestos and its products create many small fibers. These fibers, which can be either inhaled or ingested, can cause very serious health problems. In many countries asbestos is still mined, processed, and used. In a growing number of others, it is either banned or its use is severely restricted. Where is Asbestos Used?Asbestos has been used in industry since about the 1880's. As early as 1918, American and Canadian insurance companies were no longer insuring asbestos workers because of the assumed health hazards of the asbestos industry. In 1935, researchers in both the United States and England reported a suspected association between asbestos exposure and lung cancer. By 1955 this association had been confirmed, and the link to several other types of cancer had been made as well. However, the asbestos industry spent—and continues to spend—large sums of money trying to play down the hazards of exposure to asbestos fibers and to fight off stricter legislation. The following are some of the more common asbestos-containing products. This list is not exclusive. Between 1900 and the mid 1980s, asbestos was used in over 3,000 different products. During the 20th century, more than 30 million tons of asbestos were used in industrial facilities, homes, schools, shipyards, steel mills, power plants and commercial buildings in the United States. If you have any questions about these products, please contact us.
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