Study Finds Link Between Asbestos Exposure and Autoimmune Conditions

Asbestos is widely known as an occupational hazard, but emerging evidence suggests that prolonged exposure to environmental asbestos could lead to severe autoimmune conditions, according to a study by Montana State University researchers. Microbiology and immunology research associate Dr. Jean Pfau and a team of researchers discovered the connection to a specific type of asbestos found near the once badly contaminated town of Libby, Montana, and a novel autoimmune disease. The autoimmune condition is associated with collagen thickening of the serum-producing membranes surrounding the lungs. Pfau, chairperson for the Center for Asbestos Related Disease steering committee, set to study the connection after her team discovered Libby residents “are prone to developing a uniquely presenting asbestos-related autoimmune condition with associated collagen thickening of the serum-producing membranes surrounding the lungs.” “[Pfau’s] research has been focused on environmental triggers and the inflammatory/autoimmune diseases with which they are associated,” according to CARD. Autoimmune conditions occur when the body’s immune system attacks its own cells. Results of the study were published in a recent issue of Scientia, a scientific research publication. Asbestos Contamination in Libby, Montana Companies began mining vermiculite ore in Libby in the early 1900s. The naturally occurring mineral can develop alongside asbestos, which is dangerous to human hea...
Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Tags: Asbestos Exposure Clinical Trials/Research/Emerging Treatments Source Type: news