Asbestos Exposure and Your Health

"Asbestos" is the name of a group of similar minerals with separable, long, and thin fibers. Asbestos has long been suspected as a health threat to humans, because the fibers can be inhaled and are difficult to remove from the lungs.

Background

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with a chain-like crystal structure. Asbestos deposits can be found throughout the world. Deposits are still mined in Australia, Canada, South Africa, and the former Soviet Union. Asbestos is usually found mixed into other minerals. Asbestos is dangerous only if its broken crystal fibers float in the air after being disturbed.

Over the years, asbestos was used in many ways. Pipe insulation, automotive brakes, shingles, wallboard, and blown-in insulation are just a few of the products that once contained asbestos. Although the federal government suspended production of most asbestos products in the early 1970s, installation of these products continued through the late 1970s and even into the early 1980s. Asbestos fibers can be released during renovations of older buildings.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), in conjunction with other government agencies, continues to examine the health effects of asbestos. This site makes available information already produced on the topic and will provide new information as it becomes available.