What is Asbestos

Image via WikipediaAsbestos is an insulating material that is heat and fire resistant. In the past, asbestos was used widely in the building industry, ship building industry, manufacture of household appliances, motor industry, power stations, and telephone exchanges. There are three main types of asbestos - blue, brown and white. Blue and brown asbestos are strongly linked with mesothelioma.

So most cases of mesothelioma occur in men who have worked in manufacturing using asbestos or who have used asbestos products, particularly in construction or engineering. People who worked as plumbers or mechanics also have an increased risk. 

Mesothelioma may not develop until 15 to 40 years after you have been exposed to asbestos, which is why we are now seeing an increase in cases. The number of cases is expected to peak around 2020 and then start to go down.