The long-awaited second part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s risk determination on asbestos was released earlier this week, drawing praise from mesothelioma advocates across the country. The latest update highlights the risks posed by legacy asbestos, attention which president of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) Linda Reinstein calls “long overdue.”
Legacy Asbestos Linked to Malignant Mesothelioma and Other Diseases
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) previously issued a report on chrysotile asbestos and its ongoing use in manufacturing. Though this was an important step forward, it fell short of what advocates felt was the most pressing need: addressing the risk posed by legacy asbestos hidden behind walls and in infrastructure throughout the country.
Though manufacturers of products like drywall, ceiling and floor tiles, gaskets and valves, and brake linings largely discontinued their use of the material when it was identified as carcinogenic, it remains in place from earlier installations and poses a significant risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases to anybody exposed to it during repairs, maintenance, demolition, and any other action that releases its microscopic materials into the air.
Mesothelioma Advocate Says, “Still Much Work to Do”
Mrs. Reinstein has been working to advance asbestos awareness and safety since her husband Alan died of malignant mesothelioma. Speaking of the EPA’s findings, she notes that there is still much work ahead. “Legacy asbestos is a persistent and deadly threat,” she said. “Prevention is the cure, and we must ensure these EPA findings drive strong policies to protect public health and save lives.”
Reinstein hopes that the latest EPA evaluation will lead to a rule to protect people from the risks outlined in the report. She notes the need for specific action to protect the public from the risk of asbestos-related diseases, saying, “We must continue to push forward, ensuring that no one else suffers the preventable loss that so many families, including mine, have endured. The EPA’s findings are a vital step, but there is still much work to do.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net have the information and resources you need. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn how we can help.
