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The Face Of Climate Change is the theme for Earth Day 2013. Countries around the world are mobilizing their citizens to take part in various activities to raise awareness of the growing threat of climate change. From a green car show in Santa Barbara to an Earth Day Flash Mob in Korea, people of the world are taking part in this historic day to celebrate and raise awareness.
Earth Day is not only about celebrating, but also raising awareness of threats to earth; natural or human influenced. The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance would like to participate this year by bringing about awareness of one of the most deadly naturally occurring minerals on earth-- asbestos. Mesothelioma victims and their loved ones know too well the devastation that this deadly mineral can cause, but there are too many people who are still unaware of the harmful effects that asbestos exposure can have.
Below are some asbestos facts-- please participate this Earth Day by sharing this piece and help us create awareness of asbestos and mesothelioma cancer.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral and known carcinogen, was mined beginning in the late 1800’s for many commercials uses in the shipbuilding, automotive and construction industries for a few examples.
Asbestos fibers are 700 times smaller than a piece of human hair. When disturbed, these microscopic fibers can be inhaled and cling to the lining of your lungs.
Asbestos is a known cause of asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer, and mesothelioma cancer.
In the United States, some 30 million pounds of asbestos are still used each year.
Asbestos is the number one cause of occupational cancer in the United States.
The World Health Organization has declared asbestos as one of the most dangerous occupational carcinogens in the world.
Russia is the largest exporter of asbestos, followed by Canada as the second-largest exporter.
The United States, Europe, Japan and South Korea have all limited asbestos use in their respective countries, but asbestos is still exported to many developing countries and poses a risk to millions of people.
Head over to our Facebook and join our community to help spread awareness for asbestos exposure and mesothelioma this Earth Day.
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients and Their Families
- Request a Free Mesothelioma Treatment Guide
- Connect with Top Mesothelioma Doctors
- Locate the Nearest Comprehensive Cancer Center