Contextualising the policy decision to ban asbestos

Terracini, Benedetto

doi:10.1016/s2542-5196(19)30134-2

Cited by 3 publications

(4 citation statements)

References 7 publications

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“…In light of these recent studies analyzed, we agree with the need to evoke a global improvement of studies on exposed human populations as well as with the non-applicability of disproportionate precautionary measures of exposure control. However, considering the absence of any global agreement about the hazards of CNTs, we cannot take the risk creating another man-made tragedy like the case of asbestos where a century passed before its carcinogenicity was recognized, with many scientific papers defending its use to influence policy decisions on its hazards [13]. Moreover, years after its banning, we still have not achieved an asbestos-free environment and indeed the consequences thereof we still cannot predict.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 98%

“…As such, more than 100 years after the recognition of asbestos as a carcinogenic agent, the case is not yet closed (http://ibasecretariat.org/chron_ban_list.php, accessed on 2 of October 2020). Indeed, it is important to note that countries that banned asbestos a quarter of a century ago are still contributing to the worldwide toll of more than 100,000 asbestos-related deaths per year [13]. As highlighted by Terracini [13], while banning asbestos is important, that alone does not create an asbestos-free environment.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Indeed, it is important to note that countries that banned asbestos a quarter of a century ago are still contributing to the worldwide toll of more than 100,000 asbestos-related deaths per year [13]. As highlighted by Terracini [13], while banning asbestos is important, that alone does not create an asbestos-free environment. It will take a very long time to ban the use of asbestos worldwide, and it will take an even longer time to end up with an environment that is completely safe from the toxic effects of asbestos.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Assessment of the Carcinogenicity of Carbon Nanotubes in the Respiratory System

Barbarino

Giordano

2021

Cancers

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In 2014, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified the first type of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as possibly carcinogenic to humans, while in the case of other CNTs, it was not possible to ascertain their toxicity due to lack of evidence. Moreover, the physicochemical heterogeneity of this group of substances hamper any generalization on their toxicity. Here, we review the recent relevant toxicity studies produced after the IARC meeting in 2014 on an homogeneous group of CNTs, highlighting the molecular alterations that are relevant for the onset of mesothelioma. Methods: The literature was searched on PubMed and Web of Science for the period 2015–2020, using different combinations keywords. Only data on normal cells of the respiratory system after exposure to fully characterized CNTs for their physico-chemical characteristics were included. Recent studies indicate that CNTs induce a sustained inflammatory response, oxidative stress, fibrosis and histological alterations. The development of mesothelial hyperplasia, mesothelioma, and lungs tumors have been also described in vivo. The data support a strong inflammatory potential of CNTs, similar to that of asbestos, and provide evidence that CNTs exposure led to molecular alterations known to have a key role in mesothelioma onset. These evidences call for an urgent improvement of studies on exposed human populations and adequate systems for monitoring the health of workers exposed to this putative carcinogen.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 98%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Assessment of the Carcinogenicity of Carbon Nanotubes in the Respiratory System

Barbarino

Giordano

2021

Cancers

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“…Small and under-resourced countries engaging in international trade are especially vulnerable to economic pressure from powerful asbestos-exporting countries. The failure of countries to ban asbestos reflects the enormous power of the asbestos industry and its political allies who act against the best interests of public health and place short-term profits ahead of human well-being [ 46 , 47 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Asbestos awareness among the residents of St. Kitts and Nevis: a cross-sectional study

et al. 2022

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Background High levels of public awareness regarding the hazards of asbestos, rights to health, and benefits of an asbestos-free country can increase advocacy and political commitment to a total ban on asbestos. We aimed to investigate asbestos awareness and associated sociodemographic characteristics among the adult population of St. Kitts and Nevis. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 1009 participants completed an online questionnaire with questions about sociodemographic data and asbestos awareness. We applied multiple regression models to estimate associations between sociodemographic factors, levels of asbestos knowledge, and attitudes toward asbestos management. Results We found that 70% of residents of St. Kitts and Nevis considered asbestos exposure to be a general public concern and believed the government should prevent it. Of all participants, 54% were in favor of completely banning the use and importation of all asbestos products and materials; those with higher levels of asbestos knowledge were more likely to favor a total ban. Higher proportions and odds of favoring a total asbestos ban were also observed in participants aged ≥ 30 years, women, those with higher education, and those living in St. Kitts (vs. Nevis). Conclusions These findings support implementing policies to regulate and outright ban the use of asbestos products and materials in St. Kitts and Nevis. This data can be used to develop tailored campaigns to improve asbestos knowledge among sociodemographic groups with lower asbestos awareness, such as in the wider Caribbean and other under-resourced countries.

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