Until the mid eighties, asbestos was a widely used material for most constructions. But, once the awareness about asbestos acting as an air pollutant was proved, most constructors have minimized its use. Significant use of asbestos is therefore to be found in mostly old structures, even today. It is of course surprising to know that the hazardous effects of asbestos, though known to most of the industrialists and factory owners, was a well-kept secret from the general public until recently.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is one of the few diseases that occur as a result of asbestos exposure over a long period of time. This dreaded disease, which is a cancerous growth in the lungs, is seen among those who have been exposed on a prolonged basis to asbestos pollution. One is often not even aware of the hazards of asbestos since it takes years for the effects to show.

Where Asbestos Is Found

Among all the places where asbestos pollution has been observed as high, hospitals have been identified as one area. Some of the old hospital buildings with renovation processes going on have been identified as sites of asbestos pollution. The most likely areas where asbestos is to be found in healthcare units are those that include building materials (ceiling tile, floor tile, siding, spackling compounds or wall board), HVAC duct insulation, electrical wiring insulation, pipe insulation, boiler insulation, and cooling towers. These areas have been identified as dangerous zones, where asbestos accumulation can pose health threats for the medical practitioners, as well as the patients who already need medical care.

In recent times, many a question has been raised about the safety of the medical fraternity itself, which is trying to heal such diseases. Though it is acknowledged that doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are all low-risk, it is ironic and worrying that the hospitals are not an asbestos pollution free zone.

In an eye opening and moving article in ‘The Times’, Dr Andrew Lawson describes how he was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. The article, which borders on disbelief, also dispels the myth that the medical fraternity is immune to the disease or does not face similar problems. The article raises several poignant queries about resident doctors who have been exposed to such asbestos pollution over a prolonged time and are showing the symptoms of mesothelioma only now.

How Common Is It to Find Asbestos in Hospitals?

A report submitted on the same case study in 2006, brings to light the findings of New York City officials who in their survey have zeroed in on city-administered hospitals, which have asbestos problems at 10 of their 15 facilities. What is worrying is that health care maintenance workers and engineers are often unknowingly exposed to asbestos pollution from such possible areas and avenues.

Experts offer consolation in the fact that asbestos materials which are in good condition are safe, unless the asbestos fibers become airborne, which happens when the material is degraded. So, it is only damaged asbestos insulation that can pose health problems because only then can asbestos fibers become loose in the air and can