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By MacKenzie Hand '25
Abstract:
Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, has long been recognized as a devastating disease affecting individuals exposed to asbestos. However, beyond its human toll, the environmental impact of mesothelioma remains an underexplored aspect that warrants closer investigation. Asbestos, the primary causative agent of mesothelioma, has been extensively used in various industries and has left a lasting legacy in our environment. This research piece aims to elucidate the multifaceted environmental implications associated with mesothelioma, shedding light on the ecological consequences of asbestos fibers, long-term impacts of Mesothelioma-related medical waste, and anti-apocalyptic solutions.
Introduction:
Mesothelioma is a malignant tumor that primarily affects the mesothelial lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Its close association with asbestos exposure has been well-established, and the devastating health consequences for individuals have been extensively documented. However, the repercussions of mesothelioma extend beyond the human domain, permeating the environment in which we live and posing significant ecological challenges.
Impact of Asbestos:
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has been widely utilized for its exceptional strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties. Consequently, it found extensive application in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding throughout the 20th century. The release of asbestos fibers into the environment occurs through multiple pathways, including airborne dispersion during mining, manufacturing processes, and the deterioration of asbestos-containing materials over time. These microscopic fibers, lightweight and resilient, can travel great distances and persist in the environment for extended periods. Despite the known health hazards associated with asbestos, its use is widespread, resulting in substantial environmental contamination.
Medical Waste:
Alongside the dissemination of asbestos fibers throughout the Earth, medical waste associated with Mesothelioma has brought about a plague of environmental damage as well. The primary source of Mesothelioma waste is the various treatment procedures involved in managing and eliminating these macroscopic cancerous cells within the human body. Among these methods are chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and various pleurectomy procedures, or the surgical removal of mesothelioma cells. Inevitably, medical byproducts, such as radioactive chemical waste, single-use surgical devices, and cancerous cells are generated and disposed of.
Consequences:
While Mesothelioma studies have focused primarily on human health outcomes, the environmental consequences of asbestos contamination and mesothelioma treatment equate to those concerns. The toxic nature of asbestos fibers poses a threat to various ecological components, including air, water, soil, and wildlife. Inhalation of airborne fibers by animals can lead to adverse health effects, disrupting ecosystems and contributing to species decline. Additionally, the negative impact of Mesothelioma treatment products have breached the foundation of the environment, as demonstrated by waste-induced air, water, and soil pollution, natural chemical imbalances, as well as the distribution of lead, mercury, and cadmium into the ecosystem, each deadly in excess.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the urgent need to investigate and understand the environmental impact of mesothelioma continually emphasizes its importance. Recognizing the interconnectedness of human health and the environment, we can develop informed policies, interventions, and monitoring systems to tackle the complex challenges posed by asbestos contamination and mitigate the long-term consequences of this environmental health hazard.
References:
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