The two-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine is rapidly approaching, and even as the battle continues, health professionals are beginning to express concerns over future mesothelioma risk from the asbestos-contaminated debris left behind by Russian missile strikes. The European Union has recognized the risks involved and is beginning to make plans for protecting citizens both during clean-up and during rebuilding.
Exposure to Asbestos in Ukraine’s Demolished Buildings Can Cause Mesothelioma
The European Commission’s DG Environment Director General, Florika Fink-Hoojer, issued a statement in recognition of the risk of malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases in the future. She said, “When we talk about the debris, this is construction waste, or “destruction” waste, if I may say so, which unfortunately one has to also analyze. This waste cannot just be used in rebuilding again because of some legacy chemicals in destroyed buildings, like asbestos and others.”
The concerns over the destruction waste are based on the knowledge that the buildings destroyed throughout the country were built during the time that asbestos use was common, and that both clearing the rubble away and re-using the material for new construction poses a risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Fink-Hoojer stressed the need “to analyze the debris before it is used in rebuilding because of the enormous health hazards that we could have in the long run – even on the stage of dismantling.”
EU Plans to Determine Age of Buildings to Assess Mesothelioma Risk
To minimize the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses during clean-up and reconstruction, the European Union and the UNEP plan to use pre-war satellite images to identify buildings and the years that they were built. Using knowledge of when asbestos was widely used, they will be able to move forward with greater safety.
Demolition and damage to old buildings poses a significant risk of malignant mesothelioma. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with the rare form of cancer, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
