Mesothelioma Carcinogenesis: Insights from Animal Studies on Chrysotile and Forsterite

Mesothelioma Carcinogenesis: Insights from Animal Studies on Chrysotile and Forsterite

ByHolly Zink

Mesothelioma, a severe cancer caused by asbestos, remains a global health issue. Specifically, chrysotile asbestos is common and very harmful. Recent research compared the cancer risks of chrysotile and a heat-treated form, forsterite. A new study is valuable for safer asbestos disposal in the future. Comparing Chrysotile and Forsterite A recent study checked if forsterite, made from heating chrysotile, could cause mesothelioma. They injected chrysotile, forsterite (FO-1000), and enstatite (EN-1500) into rats’ abdomens. Then, they studied mesothelioma development for 24 months. The results were clear. In the chrysotile group, 91.2% of rats developed peritoneal mesothelioma. However, no mesothelioma cases were found in the forsterite and enstatite groups. The study also measured urine 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine and blood N-ERC/mesothelin levels. Both were higher…

The Hidden Danger of Asbestos Removal: Air Pollution

The Hidden Danger of Asbestos Removal: Air Pollution

ByHolly Zink

Asbestos, once used in building construction, poses health risks. Removing it safely is important. A recent study looks at a problem caused by poorly done asbestos removal – pollution. Focus of the Study A new study looks at what happens after asbestos is removed. It focuses on what happens when there is not enough vacuum in the work area. This leads to dust escaping, polluting the air not just in the work area but also up to 15 meters away. The study shows that when work areas are not sealed properly, asbestos dust gets into the air outside. This can be dangerous for people near the building being renovated. For example, removing non-friable asbestos-cement sheets can increase contamination outside. Removing…