Asbestos removal, health hazards, and the EPA
Article Abstract:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is often criticized for failing to respond vigorously and rapidly enough to potential hazards. Ironically, the EPA is now being accused by some of being overzealous. As it became clear that exposure to asbestos fibers in the air was a cause of lung disease, including a rare form of cancer, it became disturbing to consider how widespread the use of the fiber was. The strong and fireproof mineral fiber was also economical, and found its way into building materials, packing materials, and ceiling tiles. Even filters for drinking water were made of asbestos and tiny pieces of broken asbestos fiber could be found in the water. The removal of asbestos-containing materials was mandated for the nation's public schools, and 40 states have currently achieved over 90 percent compliance with the new standards. The cost for the renovations has been estimated at $3.8 billion. If public and commercial buildings are required to perform similar renovations, the EPA estimates 730,000 sites will need work costing from $100 to $150 billion. The issue hinges on the evaluation of the hazard itself. No one denies that asbestos is hazardous, but the amount of asbestos fiber in the air in many buildings is no greater than that contained in the outside air. However, it is also clear that some workers such as pipe fitters, maintenance workers, custodians, and firemen are likely to find themselves in situations where the exposure is much greater. Unfortunately, few data are available to accurately estimate the risk of low-level exposure to asbestos. Furthermore, it is unlikely that the mineral can be completely eliminated from the environment. Therefore, any rational program that is within society's economic resources must be based on some estimate of a reasonable limit, rather than the eradication of all exposure. The EPA should also attempt to enlighten society about the actual risks and the projected costs. All health workers should endeavor to educate the public about other hazards that are much more serious than asbestos exposure, including smoking and drug abuse. Even inadequate diet and inadequate exercise are more serious health threats to the average citizen than is asbestos exposure. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1991
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Health care for prisoners: how soon is soon enough?
Article Abstract:
Health care for prisoners immediately following arrest may need to be improved. A study found that 70% of prisoners treated at a New York City hospital for diabetic ketoacidosis did not have access to insulin during the hours immediately following their arrest. The American Medical Association (AMA) developed a set of standards and an accreditation program for health care provided by jails in the 1970s. During the 1980s, this program expanded to include prisons and juvenile detention centers. Health care for prisoners has improved since the standards were established, but this progress is threatened by several different factors. The number of prisoners has increased significantly with the war against drugs. The incidence of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis has increased, but the funding for health care has dropped. More effort needs to be focused on meeting the medical needs of prisoners immediately after their arrest.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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