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The Lancet Oncology Reports Carcinogenicity of Asbestos
By asbestoshub | June 1, 2009
The May 2009 edition of The Lancet Oncology reports that in March, 2009, scientists from eight countries met at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to reassess the carcinogenicity of metals, arsenic, dusts, and fibers classified as cancer-causing to humans.
Although asbestos has been banned or restricted in many places, its use is increasing in parts of Asia, South America, and the former Soviet Union. The continued use of asbestos in brake linings, and deterioration of asbestos products contributes to environmental exposure worldwide.
Epidemiological evidence has shown an association of all forms of asbestos with an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Although the potency differences for different types of asbestos fibers are debated, the generally-agreed conclusion is that all forms of asbestos are carcinogenic to humans.
There is also evidence to show that asbestos causes cancer of the larynx and of the ovary.
The asbestos carcinogenicity assessments will be published as part C of Volume 100 of the IARC Monographs.
