CAS ID#: 1332-21-4
Affected Organ Systems: Cancer, Gastrointestinal (Stomach and Intestines, part of the digestive system), Immunological (Immune System), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)
Cancer Classification: Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.
Chemical Classification: None
Summary: Asbestos is the name given to a group of six different fibrous minerals (amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite, and the fibrous varieties of tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite) that occur naturally in the environment. Asbestos minerals have separable long fibers that are strong and flexible enough to be spun and woven and are heat resistant. Because of these characteristics, asbestos has been used for a wide range of manufactured goods, mostly in building materials (roofing shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, paper products, and asbestos cement products), friction products (automobile clutch, brake, and transmission parts), heat-resistant fabrics, packaging, gaskets, and coatings. Some vermiculite or talc products may contain asbestos. New! Asbestos and Your Health ATSDR’s public-facing website on asbestos and health.
ATSDR’s public-facing website on asbestos and health.
ToxFAQs - Fact sheet that answers the most frequently asked questions about a contaminant and its health effects.
Public Health Statement - Summary about a hazardous substance taken from Chapter One of its respective ATSDR Toxicological Profile.
Toxicological Profile - Succinctly characterizes the toxicologic and adverse health effects information for a hazardous substance.
Priority List of Hazardous Substances - Prioritization of substances based on a combination of their frequency, toxicity, and potential for human exposure at National Priorities List (NPL) sites.
Case Study in Environmental Medicine (CSEM) - Self-instructional publication designed to increase primary care provider's knowledge of a hazardous substance in the environment and to aid in the evaluation of potentially exposed patients.
Grand Rounds in Environmental Medicine -