Asbestos — A hazard to the community

During a recent study of pulmonary fibrosis in one clinic area in Glasgow 21 proven cases of lung pathology associated with exposure to asbestos have come to light.

Difficulties in diagnosis may be due to “patient error” in that the patient may not remember that he had been in contact with asbestos, or know that he is exposed to asbestos in his current occupation — a joiner, for example, sawing up asbestos boards.

Examples are given of asbestosis or pleural tumours occurring many years after a short period of exposure to the dust.

Persons in innocent-looking occupations, such as joinery, may be in great danger from working near persons like laggers, who use asbestos. Especially in confined spaces on shipboard.

The importance is stressed of taking a very full occupational history, from the time the patient left school, where there is obscure pulmonary fibrosis.

The value of open lung biopsy is shown in diagnosing doubtful cases of early asbestosis.

The impression is gained that the incidence of asbestosis is increasing, and that it may come to assume great public health importance owing to the increased importation and more widespread use of asbestos.

The proposal to mix asbestos with tarmacadam for road use is viewed with concern.