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Environmental exposure to asbestos in eastern Turkey
H Canan Hasanoğlu1, Munire Gokirmak, Tamer Baysal
1Inonu University, Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Malatya, Turkey. hhasanoglu@hotmail.com
Archives of Environmental Health
|October 11, 2003
Summary
Environmental asbestos exposure in Güzelyurt, Turkey, led to asbestos-related disorders in 9.2% of residents. The study found asbestos fibers in local soil and building materials, with risk increasing with age.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Radiology
Background:
- Asbestos exposure is a significant public health concern.
- Environmental asbestos contamination can lead to serious health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of asbestos-related disorders in Güzelyurt, Turkey.
- To identify sources of environmental asbestos exposure in the region.
Main Methods:
- Environmental sampling of soil and stucco.
- Radiological examination (photofluoroscopy) of 920 inhabitants.
- Statistical analysis of findings correlated with age.
Main Results:
- Tremolite and chrysotile asbestos fibers were detected in environmental samples.
- 9.2% of the examined population (85 individuals) showed asbestos-related radiological findings.
- Older individuals (>= 50 years) had a significantly higher prevalence of calcified pleural plaques.
Conclusions:
- Asbestos-related disorders are prevalent in Güzelyurt due to environmental exposure.
- House construction materials (stucco, whitewash) containing asbestos are a primary source of exposure.
- Age is a significant risk factor for asbestos-related radiological findings.