There are a few things used to measure human exposure to asbestos. Air in a suspected contaminated area can be drawn through a filter to capture asbestos fibers. The filter is then analyzed by phase contrast microscopy (PCM). Another commonly used method to analyze the fibers is transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results are then reported as fibers per cc of air. Forced vital capacity is another way to get an idea of human exposure to asbestos. This test is an indication of decreased lung function although it is not specific to asbestos. Forced vital capacity is defined as, “the amount of air a patient can expel after taking the deepest breath possible”. This test is considered a key indicator of asbestosis. Any reading below 80% of the predicted reading is generally considered abnormal.
Asbestos exposure may lead to various health effects.
The Dose-Response Relationship Indicates the greater the exposure and the longer the time of exposure, the greater the risk of asbestos-related health effects. Thus, the latency period of the health effects due to asbestos is 25-40 years.
