What can be done to prevent the disease?

Since the 1970s, the EPA and OSHA have controlled the asbestos industry in the U.S. Asbestos was once used to keep fires from spreading and to insulate buildings. Now, other products such as flame-retardant foam are used instead. Family members and others living with asbestos workers also have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos related diseases,probably because of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on their clothing and hair. Asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace,in order to reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibres.

There are two major types of asbestos called chrysotile and amphibole. Scientists think that the amphibole form of asbestos is implicated as the root cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos,even the chrysotile variety, is still being removed from schools and other public buildings throughout the U.S. It is hoped that by removing the asbestos, the occurrence of mesothelioma will be greatly reduced.