What is Asbestos? Understanding the Hidden Dangers and Long-Term Health Risks

Asbestos is a word that stirs up concern—and for good reason. Once hailed as a miracle mineral, asbestos was widely used across industries for most of the 20th century. But behind its strength and fire-resistant properties lies a silent danger, one that has impacted millions of lives worldwide.

 

Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a concerned family member, or just curious, understanding what asbestos is, how it was used, and the serious health risks it poses can help you make informed decisions, protect yourself and others, and raise awareness in your community.

 

In this article, we’ll cover:

 

• What asbestos is
• Types of asbestos
• Historical uses
• How people are exposed
• The health risks
• The asbestos-mesothelioma connection
• Where asbestos can still be found today
• What to do if you’ve been exposed
• Support resources and next steps

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of thin, fibrous crystals. These fibers are microscopic, lightweight, and incredibly durable. They’re also resistant to heat, electricity, and chemical corrosion—which made them popular for use in construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding from the late 1800s through the 1970s.

 

The term “asbestos” actually refers to a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals, all of which share similar properties. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and easily inhaled or ingested—leading to serious health problems.

The Different Types of Asbestos

There are six main types of asbestos, classified into two categories: serpentine and amphibole.

 

• Chrysotile (White Asbestos) – Most commonly used type. Found in roofing materials, insulation, brake linings, and even some asbestos ceiling tiles.
• Amosite (Brown Asbestos) – Often used in cement sheets and pipe insulation. More dangerous due to its straight, needle-like fibers.
• Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos) – Highly hazardous; used in high-temperature insulation. Extremely thin fibers that are easily inhaled.
• Tremolite – Not used commercially, but can be found as a contaminant in talc and vermiculite.
• Actinolite – Rare; found in insulation and drywall products.
• Anthophyllite – Limited commercial use; found in some construction materials.

Why Was Asbestos So Widely Used?

At the peak of its use, asbestos seemed like a perfect material. It was fireproof, non-conductive, soundproof, and incredibly durable. These characteristics made it a go-to resource for:

 

• Insulation in homes, schools, and factories
• Roofing shingles and floor tiles
• Automotive parts like brakes and clutches
• Cement and plaster
• Fireproof clothing
• Shipbuilding and naval vessels
• Acoustic textures like asbestos in popcorn ceilings
• Heat-resistant ceiling panels, such as asbestos ceiling tiles

From World War II through the 1970s, asbestos could be found in nearly every building, ship, and industrial product. Unfortunately, the health risks weren’t just overlooked—they were hidden.

How Are People Exposed to Asbestos?

Asbestos becomes dangerous when it’s “friable”—that is, when it’s easily crumbled or disturbed, releasing fibers into the air. You can’t see or smell asbestos, which makes exposure especially dangerous.

 

Common exposure scenarios include:

 

• Demolition or renovation of older buildings
• Occupational exposure in construction, shipyards, or military service
• Secondary exposure from a family member’s contaminated clothing, such as asbestos on clothes
• Environmental exposure in areas near natural asbestos deposits

Even small or short-term exposure can lead to serious health issues years later.

The Health Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos is a known human carcinogen. When inhaled or ingested, its fibers can lodge in the lungs or abdomen, causing inflammation, scarring, and cellular damage. Over time, this can lead to several life-threatening diseases.

 

• Mesothelioma – This aggressive cancer affects the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), heart (pericardium), or testes. It is caused by asbestos exposure.
• Asbestosis – A chronic lung condition caused by prolonged asbestos exposure, leading to scarring of lung tissue, shortness of breath, and decreased lung function.
• Lung Cancer – People exposed to asbestos are at higher risk—especially if they also smoke.
• Other Cancers – Asbestos exposure has also been linked to cancers of the larynx, ovaries, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract.

The Asbestos-Mesothelioma Connection

Mesothelioma is a devastating diagnosis. It’s rare, aggressive, and often diagnosed in its late stages. Most people who develop mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos 20 to 50 years earlier—often without their knowledge.

 

At Unbreakable Journeys, we’ve met many individuals whose mesothelioma stories began decades before their first symptoms appeared. Some were shipbuilders, construction workers, or military veterans. Others were family members who simply hugged a loved one after work—unknowingly exposed due to asbestos on clothes.

 

There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure.

Is Asbestos Still a Problem Today?

Surprisingly, yes.

 

Although asbestos use has been heavily restricted in many countries, it has not been fully banned in the United States. That means it can still be found in:

 

• Older buildings (homes, schools, hospitals)
• Insulation and roofing materials
• Vinyl flooring and textured paints, including asbestos in popcorn ceiling
• Brake pads and vehicle clutches
• Imported products from countries with looser regulations
• Industrial buildings with asbestos ceiling tiles still intact

If disturbed, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release fibers into the air, putting unsuspecting people at risk.

 

What To Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos

 

If you believe you’ve been exposed to asbestos, either recently or in the past, here are steps you can take:

• Speak with a healthcare provider. Let them know about your exposure history. Regular imaging or pulmonary function tests may be recommended.
• Avoid further exposure. If you live or work in an older building, ask for an asbestos inspection before doing any renovations.
• Talk to a legal expert. Many people exposed to asbestos were never warned about the risks. You may be eligible for compensation if you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness.
• Find community support. Organizations like Unbreakable Journeys connect patients, families, and survivors, providing education, empowerment, and emotional support.

The Emotional and Human Side of Asbestos

Behind the science and statistics are real people—mothers, fathers, veterans, and survivors. The journey with an asbestos-related disease is often overwhelming, isolating, and full of unanswered questions.

 

At Unbreakable Journeys, we’re more than a resource. We are a community. Our mission is to honor the strength of those facing cancer caused by asbestos through storytelling, support, and transformative experiences that bring healing and hope.

 

If you or someone you love has been affected, you’re not alone. We invite you to join us on this journey—because no one should walk it alone.

Quick Facts About Asbestos

• Asbestos was used in over 3,000 products in the U.S.
• The latency period for mesothelioma is typically 20–50 years
• 3,000+ people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the U.S.
• Asbestos is still legal in the U.S. in certain applications
• No amount of asbestos exposure is considered safe

Resources for Asbestos-Related Illnesses

Here are some trusted resources where you can learn more or get support:

 

• Unbreakable Journeys – unbreakablejourneys.org
• Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation – www.curemeso.org
• EPA Asbestos Guide – www.epa.gov/asbestos
• OSHA Asbestos Safety – www.osha.gov
• American Cancer Society – www.cancer.org

Final Thoughts

Asbestos is more than a construction material—it’s a public health crisis that continues to affect lives around the world. Understanding what asbestos is, where it’s found, and how to stay safe is crucial. If you’ve been impacted by asbestos or an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma, Unbreakable Journeys is here to walk beside you.

 

No one should face this journey alone. With awareness, support, and community, we can navigate these challenges together, fostering strength and healing.