Mesothelioma Prevention
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Can mesothelioma be prevented? If exposure to asbestos is the main cause of this disease, we need to know where asbestos may be found in homes or in buildings so that we can either remove the asbestos or stay away from this health threat.
Where Asbestos Hazards May Be Found In The Home
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the following represents areas in the home in which asbestos hazards may be found:
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Walls and floors around wood burning stoves may be protected with asbestos paper, millboard, or cement sheets.
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Asbestos is found in some vinyl floor tiles and the backing on vinyl sheet flooring and adhesives.
- Hot water and steam pipes in older houses may be coated with an asbestos material or covered with an asbestos blanket or tape.
- Oil and coal furnaces and door gaskets may have asbestos insulation.
Hot water and steam pipes in older houses may be coated with an asbestos material or covered with an asbestos blanket or tape. |
EPA Recommendations for Dealing with Asbestos Around the Home
Asbestos was widely used in many building and industrial materials, including siding panels, roof shingles, mortar, flooring and insulation. Asbestos-containing materials still exist in many homes. Here are some EPA recommendations for dealing with asbestos around the home:
- Leave asbestos alone. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers. The danger occurs when fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs.
- Generally limit activities in any areas having damaged asbestos material. In particular, keep children away from such areas.
Remember: Staying away from any form of asbestos appears to be the best form of mesothelioma prevention! |
- Avoid sweeping, or vacuuming debris that may contain asbestos. Also avoid sanding, scraping, or drilling holes in materials that possibly contain asbestos.
- Have removal and major repair done by people trained and qualified in handling asbestos. It is highly recommended that sampling, cleaning and minor repair also be done by asbestos professionals.
- If you need to discard asbestos material, check with local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials for proper handling and disposal procedures.
Asbestos was widely used in many building and industrial materials, including siding panels, roof shingles, mortar, flooring and insulation. Asbestos-containing materials still exist in many homes. |
Mesothelioma Prevention: Conclusion
Can mesothelioma be prevented? If exposure to asbestos is the main cause of this disease, we need to know where asbestos may be found in homes or in buildings so that we can either remove the asbestos or stay away from this health threat.
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