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Tremolite

Another type of asbestos is tremolite, which is named after the Val Tremola, a valley in Switzerland. The mineral, which is composed of calcium, magnesium, silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen is formed when dolomite, a calcium-rich mineral, comes into contact with silica and water. The typical colors found in tremolite formations may vary from brown to gray or white to green. The mineral is partially transparent with a pearly luster and may contain streaks of white. Tremolite is characteristically found in large columnar or fibrous masses in ultramafic rock, which can be found in the United States, Europe, and many other regions of the world.

The amphibole mineral is one of six types of asbestos that have been commercially exploited. Throughout the past century, asbestos has been used in thousands of consumer products, ranging from insulation materials to sealants to paints to brake pads and household kitchen appliances. Scientists and health authorities have extensively proven that tremolite and all other types of asbestos are carcinogens and are responsible for thousands of deaths worldwide. In the United States alone, more than 10,000 Americans die annually from asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

In a study conducted at Duke University on 315 people with mesothelioma, researchers found more than half the patients had tremolite particles in their lungs. An even greater number of people had talc particles in their lung tissue, which strongly correlated with the presence of tremolite.

These findings have a number of implications for the future of research and treatment concerning asbestos-related illnesses. Results could suggest that tremolite may have an increased potential to cause mesothelioma than previously believed. Another possible explanation for these numbers is a plausibly higher toxicity or carcinogenic effect associated with tremolite asbestos.

Although some industry sources insist tremolite is now seldom used in consumer products in the United States, a recent scandal indicates there is reason for concern about tremolite contamination in certain products. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a popular children's toy, called the CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Fingerprint Examination Kit, has been found to contain tremolite and one other form of asbestos. The executive director of EWG claims tests commissioned by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization found as much as 7.2 percent tremolite concentration in six out of eight samples tested. The presence of tremolite and other forms of asbestos in products such as these could put families at risk for developing asbestos-related illnesses.

Additionally, tremolite may be found in other products in and around the home and workplace. Anecdotal evidence points to the fact that talcum powder and vermiculite may sometimes contain asbestos, although the inclusion of tremolite in these materials is probably unintentional. Individuals that live near or use products that contain tremolite and other types of asbestos may be exposed to microscopic asbestos fibers.

Thousands of Americans and people across the globe have been exposed to tremolite and other forms of asbestos, and thousands have developed serious illnesses as a result of their exposure. The findings of recent studies suggest that many cases of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases may have been caused by exposure to tremolite. Those who have worked with or otherwise used asbestos-containing products may have been exposed to tremolite. Individuals who think they may have been exposed to any form of asbestos should seek a physical assessment from a physician.

Those already coping with asbestos-related illness know the immense costs incurred from treating these aggressive diseases. The companies that knowingly manufactured toxic asbestos products have been held liable for the pain and suffering endured by those with asbestos-related illness. Compensation for losses and costs incurred can be achieved by pursuing legal options with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. Many asbestos companies have been brought to justice for the thousands of lives that have been lost to asbestos-related illness, and with the continued strength and perseverance of those affected by asbestos-induced diseases, the liable entities will continue to pay the consequences of their actions.

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