Several decades ago, it would not have been uncommon for you to hear about or come into close vicinity with products containing asbestos. Back then, even most home insulation contained the material. It existed (and still does, in many cases) in ceiling tiles, flooring, cabinetry, certain vehicle and machine components, and more. The problem is that when certain conditions are present or disruption of asbestos occurs, it poses a serious health risk to anyone nearby.
Whether you're still active in the workforce or retired, you may be suffering an asbestos-related illness and not even be aware of it. That's because most infections and illnesses associated with asbestos are slow-developing conditions with symptoms that may not be apparent for months, even years, following exposure. The bottom line is the more you know about asbestos, the better, especially if you think you may have suffered adverse health effects because of it. The good news is support networks are already in place to assist you.