How can asbestos affect children? We do not know
if exposure to asbestos will result in birth defects or other developmental
effects in people. Birth defects have not been observed in animals exposed to
asbestos.It is likely that health effects
seen in children exposed to high levels of asbestos will be similar to the
effects seen in adults.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos?Materials
containing asbestos that are not disturbed or deteriorated do not, in general,
pose a health risk and can be left alone. If you suspect that you may be
exposed to asbestos in your home, contact your state or local health department
or the regional offices of EPA to find out how to test your home and how to
locate a company that is trained to remove or contain the fibers.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been exposed to
asbestos?Low
levels of asbestos fibers can be measured in urine, feces, mucus, or lung
washings of the general public. Higher than average levels of asbestos fibers
in tissue can confirm exposure but not determine whether you will experience
any health effects.A thorough history, physical exam,
and diagnostic tests are needed to evaluate asbestos-related disease. Chest
x-rays are the best screening tool to identify lung changes resulting from
asbestos exposure. Lung function tests and CAT scans also assist in the
diagnosis of asbestos-related disease.
Has the federal government made recommendations to protect
human health?In 1989, EPA banned all new uses of asbestos; uses established before
this date are still allowed. EPA established regulations that require school
systems to inspect for damaged asbestos and to eliminate or reduce the exposure
by removing the asbestos or by covering it up. EPA regulates the release of
asbestos from factories and during building demolition or renovation to prevent
asbestos from getting into the environment.
EPA has proposed a concentration
limit of 7 million fibers per liter of drinking water for long fibers (lengths
greater than or equal to 5 µm).
The Occupational Safety and Health
Administration has set limits of 100,000 fibers with lengths greater than or
equal to 5 µm per cubic meter of workplace air for 8-hour shifts and 40-hour
work weeks.
References:Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). 2001. Toxicological Profile for
Asbestos. Update. Atlanta, GA:
U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.