Overview of Chemicals Involved

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s health consultations in El Dorado Hills, California, focus on the potential health effects associated with exposure to naturally occurring asbestos.

Asbestos refers to a group of silicate minerals whose crystals form long, thin, flexible fibers that are strong and heat resistant. These minerals have been mined and used in products throughout the world. Breathing in asbestos is known to increase the risk of several asbestos-related diseases.

Although all asbestos is ultimately natural in origin, the term naturally occurring asbestos is used to refer to asbestos and asbestos-like minerals that are not intentionally mined or used but may be disturbed by human activities. Breathing in airborne naturally occurring asbestos increases the risk of asbestos-related diseases.

Selected Resources

Naturally Occurring Asbestos
This Web page includes links to information on naturally occurring asbestos and its health effects for the general public and for health care professionals.

ToxFAQs™ for Asbestos
This fact sheet answers frequently asked questions about the health effects of exposure to asbestos.

Toxicological Profile for Asbestos
This resource provides a complete summary and interpretation of available toxicological and epidemiological data on asbestos.

Top of Page