The part of this book covering pathogensis and modes of action begins with a chapter on the physicochemical properties of asbestos fibers and a chapter on the deposition and retention of fibers within the lung and their clearance. Some of the effects of asbestos can be reproduced in animal experiments, and the book includes a full review of the results from animal studies using various routes of administration of fibers. It is also generally accepted that the effects of fibers on pulmonary macrophages is central to all fiber-induced pathology, and the release of macrophage-associated inflammatory and immunological mediatros is dealt with in a further chapter. Examination of pathogenicity by cell culture is described, and areas covered include the role of free radicals and cellular mechanisms in producing genetic damage. The fiber-induced activation of some second messenger pathways is also described, with consideration of whether or not similar cellular mechanisms are responsible for all the clinical conditions associated with fiber exposure. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved should be valuable in the development of safe fibers and the prevention of human exposure to new materials that are dangerous as asbestos. The final chapters expound and resolve the conflicts in evidence, discuss the importance of fibers for human well-being and the possible health impact on nonmineral alternatives, and evaluate risks to the public

In the last decades, there has been increasing interest in Naturally Occurring Asbestos (NOA) and asbestos containing materials (ACMs) as a source of possible environmental risk. A crucial theme of interest related to environmental pollution is the enhanced mobilization of asbestos minerals affecting soils and rocks due to human activities (e.g., road construction, mining activity) in comparison with natural weathering processes. The volume has aimed to gather contributions and to compare results derived from various experiences of research groups regarding NOA minerals as a source of possible environmental risks for population. Case studies from various geological contexts are presented. Moreover, contributions presenting novel and classical approaches for ACM inertization and recycling, together with possible solutions for reducing asbestos exposure, has been also presented.

- Key points - Introduction - What are asbestos and man-made mineral fibres? - Where are these materials used? - What are the risks to health? - How to identify and assess materials containing mineral fibres - How to manage fibrous materials in buildings - Advice on problems involving asbestos - Disposal of asbestos waste - Common questions and answers

Provides the most current information and research available for performing risk assessments on exposed individuals and populations, giving guidance to public health authorities, primary care physicians, and industrial managers Reviews current knowledge on human exposure to selected chemical agents and physical factors in the ambient environment Updates and revises the previous edition, in light of current scientific literature and its significance to public health concerns Includes new chapters on: airline cabin exposures, arsenic, endocrine disruptors, and nanoparticles