The Danger of Asbestos in Roofs, WHO Issues a Ban!
Light House Denver – The danger of asbestos is a serious concern in Indonesia, despite its popularity due to affordability and ease of installation. However, many people are unaware that asbestos poses a significant health risk. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a ban on using asbestos as roofing material, including for homes, due to its serious health risks.
Asbestos contains fibers that can become airborne and be inhaled. These fibers are extremely small, measuring less than 3 micrometers, or thinner than 1/700th of a human hair. These fibers are difficult to avoid and can lodge in the lungs if inhaled.
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Because of the danger of asbestos in its microscopic size, individuals exposed to asbestos fibers may not immediately feel symptoms. People typically experience symptoms 40-60 years after the initial exposure, and the fibers can remain in the lungs for many years without being noticed.
Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause various serious diseases. One of these is asbestosis, a condition in which the lung tissue becomes inflamed and scarred, disrupting breathing. People also refer to this disease as pulmonary fibrosis or interstitial pneumonitis.
Worse still, long-term exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer or mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that affects the protective membranes around the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Mesothelioma is one of the most aggressive and difficult cancers to treat.
Unfortunately, diseases caused by asbestos, such as asbestosis, cannot be cured. Available treatments focus on alleviating symptoms, such as improving lung function and reducing inflammation. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, are also essential to reduce the risk of lung disease.
The WHO has banned asbestos use due to its carcinogenic properties, meaning it can cause cancer. WHO data from 2016 shows that approximately 200,000 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases. The majority of these deaths occur in workplaces.
As a preventive measure, WHO reports that 50 countries have implemented bans on asbestos use. In Indonesia, the government has set restrictions on asbestos use. According to the Ministry of Health Regulation No. 2 of 2023, it allows asbestos to be used with a limit of 5 fibers per milliliter in building materials.
Asbestos roofing may seem economical, but its health risks far outweigh the benefits. Therefore, it is crucial for the public to understand the potential dangers and adhere to regulations to protect long-term health.
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