Asbestos became well known in the 70s. However, asbestos was used decades before this. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber that was used as early as 3000 BC. Surprisingly, asbestos was found to be dangerous early on. Even so, the United States used asbestos in many industries. From home construction to industrial buildings, asbestos was used in most materials. Today, we know the dangers of asbestos and continue to find it in homes, businesses, and even newer materials. Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and severe respiratory disorders. Many do not know they were exposed, as asbestos lies dormant for decades before it wreaks havoc on the body.
Some of the first to use asbestos fibers were Egyptians, Persians, and Romans. It was mainly used in clothing, insulation, and pottery. In 50 AD, the fiber was named asbestos by a Roman scholar. Asbestos illnesses were first seen in slaves that worked around the substance. By 1828 AD the United States patented asbestos and began using it in construction. In 1906 AD the first asbestos related illness was mentioned in medical literature. Asbestos-related illnesses were revealed in The Journal of the American Medical Association in 1964 AD. Finally, in 1979, the EPA announces asbestos is a carcinogen and begins to ban its use in all substances.
Asbestos has caused illnesses for decades, and it is still being used in products. If you have any lasting respiratory symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately! Asbestos exposure can lead to many severe illnesses. It is important to have an asbestos test completed on your home or business to prevent further contamination. Even newer homes should be tested, as asbestos is still seen in newer materials. Protect your family with a simple test! For more information check out our other blogs, or give us a call to setup an asbestos test.
