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Chrysotile asbestos is the main cause of pleural mesothelioma
1School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley 94720, USA.
Abstract:
In contrast to amphibole forms of asbestos, chrysotile asbestos is often claimed to be only a minor cause of malignant pleural mesothelioma, a highly fatal cancer of the lining of the thoracic cavity. In this article we examine the evidence from animal and human studies that relates to this issue. Reported data do not support widely quoted views regarding the relative inertness of chrysotile fibers in mesothelioma causation. In fact, examination of all pertinent studies makes it clear that chrysotile asbestos is similar in potency to amphibole asbestos. Since asbestos is the major cause of mesothelioma, and chrysotile constitutes 95% of all asbestos use world wide, it can be concluded that chrysotile asbestos is the main cause of pleural mesothelioma in humans.
Insights
Chrysotile asbestos, despite claims of being a minor cause, is a significant factor in malignant pleural mesothelioma. This research indicates chrysotile is as potent as amphibole asbestos in causing this cancer.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Oncology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a fatal cancer linked to asbestos exposure.
- Chrysotile asbestos is widely believed to be less potent than amphibole asbestos in causing this cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the evidence linking chrysotile asbestos to malignant pleural mesothelioma.
- To compare the potency of chrysotile and amphibole asbestos in mesothelioma causation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing animal and human studies on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
- Analysis of epidemiological data and toxicological findings.
Main Results:
- Data contradict the notion of chrysotile's relative inertness in mesothelioma development.
- Chrysotile asbestos demonstrates potency comparable to amphibole asbestos in causing mesothelioma.
Conclusions:
- Chrysotile asbestos is a primary cause of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
- Given its widespread use (95% of asbestos), chrysotile is the main contributor to human cases of this cancer.