7. Geographic Hotspots: Where the Risk is Highest
Asbestos is naturally occurring and can be found in the ground in certain geographic regions. Specific places in the world are hotspots for asbestos mining and therefore pose a significantly higher risk of lung carcinoma from exposure. It’s a lesser-known fact that places rich in serpentine rocks are highly likely to contain chrysotile asbestos, the most commonly used form of asbestos.
Environmental exposure is a major concern in these regions. Even if one doesn’t work in the asbestos industry, simply residing in an asbestos-rich zone can increase the risk. High levels of the dangerous fibers can leach into the air and water, causing widespread community exposure. Moreover, natural disasters like earthquakes can release vast amounts of fibers into the atmosphere, affecting large populations.
One surprising twist in the narrative is the role of garden products. Some fertilizers and vermiculites contain asbestos, especially those sourced from asbestos-rich areas. So, even a seemingly harmless act like gardening could expose individuals to a potential lung cancer risk, a risk they might never even suspect.
Geographic hotspots for asbestos are not limited to underdeveloped or developing countries. Some parts of North America, Australia, and Europe are rich in asbestos, complicating the notion that this is a “third-world problem.” The implications are global, and solutions require concerted international efforts. (7)
