Determination of environmental exposure to asbestos (tremolite) and mesothelioma risks in the southeastern region of Turkey

Arch Environ Health. 2004 Dec;59(12):658-62. doi: 10.1080/00039890409602950.

Abstract

In this study, the authors examined the concentrations and mineralogical analyses of asbestos, and investigated mesothelioma risk in southeastern Anatolia, Turkey. They used a gravimetric dust sampler to collect samples from 2 villages and 2 asbestos mines (1 active). Samples were then evaluated by an X-ray diffractometer and an electron microscope. The authors found high concentrations of asbestos in an active mine (4.9 fibers[f]/cm3) and at a house that was plastered with asbestos (1.24 f/cm3) and had a very active population. They found a low concentration (0.0042 f/cm3) in indoor measurements taken in Armutova village, and an even lower concentration (0.000081 f/cm3) in the inactive mine environment. Outdoor measurements included a low concentration of 0.007 f/cm3 in the village environment, and a high concentration of 1.17 f/cm3 on the mine road during the passing of a sheep herd. The people in the region are continuously exposed to asbestos during normal activities. This cumulative exposure to asbestos carries sufficient risks for mesothelioma development.

MeSH terms

  • Asbestos / chemistry
  • Asbestos / toxicity*
  • Data Collection
  • Dust*
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Environmental Exposure / analysis*
  • Epidemiologic Studies
  • Housing
  • Humans
  • Mesothelioma / epidemiology*
  • Mesothelioma / etiology
  • Mining
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Occupational Exposure / analysis*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Turkey / epidemiology

Substances

  • Dust
  • Asbestos