In this informative video from Seeker, host Trace Dominguez explains what asbestos is, what it’s been used for over the years, the different varieties of the mineral and the danger it poses to humans.
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Asbestos is a material that has been used extensively over the years due to its fireproof, heatproof and waterproof properties. However, asbestos is incredibly dangerous to humans and the fibers of this toxic mineral can cause deadly diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Dominguez explains that asbestos enters the body when products containing the substance are broken down. Asbestos fibers are invisible, odorless and tasteless so people have no idea that they are swallowing or inhaling them. It’s estimated that 1.3 million construction workers in the U.S. are at risk of asbestos exposure and that around 6,000 people die each year from asbestos-related illnesses.
MORE: A brief history of mesothelioma.
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