MedNews — Mesothelioma (Asbestos)
Lung Damage Evident 25 Years After Workers Exposed to Legal Limits of Asbestos-Like Material (Vermiculite)
Workers who processed vermiculite tainted with asbestos-like fibers 25 years ago show high prevalence of scarring and thickening of the membrane that lines the chest wall, including people exposed below legal levels.
In 1970 workers who had handled "Libby vermiculite" (so named after the Libby, Montana mine where the tainted fibers were first noted), exhibited a cluster of bloody pleural effusions. The Libby mine at one time produced up to 80 percent of the vermiculite used around the world. More »
Asbestos in New York Steam Blast
A steam pipe blast that injured dozens of people in downtown Manhattan spewed debris that contained asbestos particles, according to New York City's Department of Emergency Management. The department says they found asbestos in six of ten samples taken.
"People who may (have come) into contact with the steam or debris should take a shower and place their clothes in plastic bags for cleaning or disposal," the statement said.
The blast resulted in dozens of injuries, and at least one death. More »
