U.S. Congress report: all forms of asbestos still “known carcinogens”

For anyone wondering about having an asbestos remediation, the news is in: every single form of asbestos is still a “known carcinogen.” So it’s a good idea to go forward with any plans to eliminate it from your building.

The United States Department of Health and Services released its 12^th Report on Carcinogens earlier this month. The document lists 54 different chemicals (including metals, pesticides, drugs, etc.) that are known and proven causes of cancer and 186 more that are suspected. Asbestos remains on the “known” list. Every one of its variations is guilty.

The naturally occurring mineral fibre is known to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare cancer that attacks the protective lining of the lungs, heart, chest and abdomen. The only known cause of mesothelioma is prolonged asbestos exposure. As many buildings haven’t undergone proper asbestos removal yet, it’s no surprise that 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma every year.

Asbestos appeared on Congress’ 1^st Report on Carcinogens in 1980. All its forms – chrysotile, anthophylite and crocoidolite – are known to increase the risk of cancer. And we’ve known for more than 30 years.

Naturally, these findings stress how important it is for any company suspecting the harmful agent to hire an asbestos remediation company to get rid of it. The document also further highlights the embarrassment facing Canada as a nation. This country’s government is willingly supporting and exporting a mineral which is a proven carcinogen. Imagine if Prime Minister Harper spoke out in support of cigarettes and claimed that the warning label on packs was unnecessary? It’s the equivalent.

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