How to Prevent Lung Cancer after Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a natural resource that is mined. Asbestos was once used for insulating buildings and used in cement, vinyl flooring, and many other items. However, since the 1970s, the use of asbestos has been heavily regulated because exposure to it can result in serious medical conditions, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. There are a few preventive methods you can use to reduce the likelihood of developing lung cancer as a result of asbestos exposure. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, whether in your home or in your work environment.
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Instructions
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Stop Smoking
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Seek consultation with a physician after exposure to asbestos. Your physician will then conduct exams, such as a urinalysis, x-rays, or a bronchoscopy (a test that detects asbestos fibers within your lungs), to determine the extent of the damage done by your asbestos exposure.
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Quit smoking if you're currently a smoker. According to the National Caner Institute, smokers who have been exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Quitting smoking may help reduce the risk of developing lung cancer.
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Ask your physician about techniques to help you quit smoking. Products such as gum and patches may help. Your physician can also prescribe medications that can help you quit.
Work Environment Protection
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If you've been exposed to asbestos in the work environment, discuss the situation with your co-workers, a safety representative, and your employer. Safety measures need to be taken to prevent other employees from being exposed to asbestos.
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If you're returning to your work environment, it is exceedingly important for you to wear all safety gear, such as a ventilator mask, provided by your employer. You need to follow all safety procedures.
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If your workplace has showers, take a shower before leaving for home. Otherwise, immediately wash your body as soon as you arrive at home.
Home Exposure
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If you've been exposed to asbestos in your home, it is important to remove yourself and your family from the hazardous environment. According to the Mayo Clinic, "it's more dangerous to remove the material than to leave it intact," so you should not try to remove the material yourself.
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Reduce your chances of inhaling any more asbestos fibers. Seek out a professional who is experienced with the removal of asbestos from your home.
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Contact the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to access more information on how to have an experienced professional properly remove asbestos from your home. You can also download a free brochure through the EPA on how to identify materials that are made with asbestos.
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If you begin to develop symptoms, such as coughing, painful breathing, or chest pain, seek medical attention. Your physician will conduct exams to determine the cause of your symptoms.
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Tips & Warnings
If you work in an environment that has asbestos, wear a safety goggles and a ventilator mask to reduce your chances of inhaling the particles.
Wear protective clothing to prevent particles from sticking to your skin.
Thoroughly wash your body after being exposed to asbestos.
If you're remodeling a home that was constructed before 1970, have a qualified company handle the reconstruction, so that your family is not possibly exposed to asbestos.
Never under any circumstances try to remove asbestos yourself.
