Health Officials Warn of Erionite Cancer Risk
Erionite, a mineral that is commonly found in the earth’s rocks and soil, has been targeted by warnings from the US government. The warnings are targeted at workers who may come into frequent contact with the mineral, such as in mining jobs or jobs where they are otherwise digging up or excavating the ground.
The mineral has been identified as a carcinogen, much like asbestos was a few decades ago, prompting its removal from siding, home use and other uses such as ceiling tiles and other home and commercial building use where people may inhale the fumes from the dangerous substance.
Much like asbestos, erionite is not really a concern until it is dug up and disturbed. This is because when it is stirred up, it emits a microscopic, needle like particle which becomes a lung irritant and nasal passage irritant. Anything that irritates the lining of any bodily organ is really cancer causing, because the cells that reside in that area are often forced to mutate.
Is erionite more or less dangerous than asbestos?
Well, that’s where the news gets even worse. Being exposed to erionite is much, much worse than being exposed to asbestos. Sure, it’s fine until it gets disturbed, but that is the whole point, they want people to be aware of it and avoid any areas that may be suspected to have high levels of the mineral, or to wear protective masks and gear that will help prevent them from inhaling the dangerous carcinogen.
It is heavily suspected in causing cases of mesothelioma, a cancer that affects the lungs and up until now, was thought to be largely attributed to asbestos inhalation.