An Overlooked Threat

My name is Richard Ferring and I volunteer for an organization called the Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center.   We are a non-profit organization specializing in spreading awareness about mesothelioma and other asbestos-related ailments.  As somewhat of an expert in the area, I would like to share some information surrounding the dangers of asbestos exposure as a result of Hurricane Katrina.

Hurricane Katrina made landfall in late August of 2005 leaving destruction and loss of life in its wake.  Federal disaster declarations covered more than 90,000 square miles.  In addition to the municipal buildings, bridges, and other properties that were damaged, over 130,000 homes were completely destroyed.  Petroleum products, raw sewage, and industrial waste were introduced into   the environment at dangerous levels.  One of the most overlooked dangers, however, was the release of asbestos particles into the air and water.

Asbestos, as many of you may know, is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined throughout the world.  Until about 40 years ago, it was used abundantly as an insulator because of its heat-resistant properties. Asbestos  was used in everything from car brakes to the strengthening fibers in construction materials.  Although its uses have since been limited, asbestos products can still be found in many older buildings and structures.  Asbestos is not dangerous when it is intact and undisturbed.  As long as it is encased in a stable environment without wear or tear, asbestos can function as a healthy material.  Unfortunately asbestos is a friable mineral.  This means that it is easily broke into small fragments or reduced to  powder when it is disturbed.  As a result of the destruction of Katrina, literally tons of asbestos we released into the air and water.  The survivors, rescue workers, clean-up teams, and anyone else in  the area may have been exposed to the deadly carcinogen. 

When asbestos is inhaled it travels through the airway into the chest.  These fibers attack what is known as the mesothelium, or a two-layered membrane that covers the internal organs like the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs.  The mesothelium is divided into three sections called the pleura, pericardium, and the peritoneum which cover the lungs, heart, and abdomen respectively.  It is in these areas that the deadly cancer mesothelioma can  occur.

There is a possibility that hundreds or even thousands of asbestos related illnesses may occur as a result of the toxic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.  If you begin to feel symptoms of mesothelioma or a respiratory illness, it is important that you mention that you may have been exposed to asbestos.  Although mesothelioma can take more than 20 years to develop, it is important that you recognize it as early as possible - you will have a much greater prognosis.  If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to email me at rferring@maacenter.org.  I would be more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have.