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Asbestos

By Lynne Eldridge MD, About.com

Updated February 09, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A group of fibrous materials used in insulation, fireproofing and building materials.

Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer involving the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos is a known human carcinogen. The use of asbestos was banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1989 but is still present in many structures built prior to that time.

Examples:
Bill believes his mesothelioma was caused by his many years working in construction, removing insulation.
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