Health Effects and Carcinogenicity of Asbestos
topic
Asbestos inhalation causes mesothelioma of pleural and peritoneal membranes with latency of 20 to 50 years, lung cancer with multiplicative interaction with smoking, and asbestosis characterised by progressive diffuse pulmonary fibrosis; all six asbestos mineral types are classified IARC Group 1 carcinogens based on sufficient evidence from occupational cohort epidemiological studies demonstrating causal relationships.
Role
Provides the epidemiological and toxicological evidence base that justifies the global regulatory response to asbestos including manufacturing bans, occupational exposure limit enforcement, and mandatory asbestos management programmes for legacy-containing buildings, establishing the scientific framework within which substitute mineral fibre biopersistence and carcinogenicity is evaluated.