Thousands of Americans die each year from asbestos related diseases.

Asbestos has been used for years in building materials, paper products, plastics, and other products.  Exposure mainly occurs in indoor air where it may be released from these materials.  Effects on the lung are a major health concern from asbestos, as chronic [long-term] exposure to asbestos in humans via inhalation can result in a lung disease termed asbestosis. 

Asbestosis is characterized by shortness of breath and cough and may lead to severe impairment of respiratory function.  Cancer is also a major concern from asbestos exposure, as inhalation exposure can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, and possibly gastrointestinal cancers in humans. 

The EPA has classified asbestos as a Group A, known human carcinogen.