Asbestos Wasn’t Banned — And You’re Still at Risk
Asbestos is a dangerous material that many people think was banned long ago, but the truth is more complicated—and worrying. Despite its well-known health risks, asbestos has never been fully banned in the United States. This means you could still be exposed to it today without realizing it.
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was widely used for decades in building materials, insulation, and various industrial products because of its heat resistance and durability. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs), and asbestosis (a chronic lung disease). These illnesses often take years or even decades to develop after exposure.
Many countries around the world have completely banned asbestos due to these dangers. The U.S., however, remains one of the few industrialized nations without a comprehensive ban on all uses of asbestos. While some types of asbestos use have been restricted or phased out over time, certain forms—especially chrysotile asbestos—are still allowed in products and industries under regulatory loopholes.
Recent efforts by chemical industry lobbyists have further stalled attempts at banning asbestos outright. In fact, officials with ties to powerful chemical manufacturers have influenced government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to delay or weaken bans on ongoing uses of asbestos. This political interference puts public health at risk by allowing continued exposure despite overwhelming scientific evidence about its harm.
Every year in the U.S., more than 40,000 deaths are linked to diseases caused by asbestos exposure. Many people remain unaware they might encounter this toxic material during home renovations, in older buildings with legacy construction materials, or through imported products containing small amounts of it.
Because there is no safe level of exposure to airborne asbestos fibers—even brief contact can be harmful—it’s critical for individuals and communities to stay informed about where it might still exist and how they can protect themselves from accidental inhalation.
In short: Asbestos wasn’t truly banned; it’s still lurking around us today due largely to regulatory delays influenced by industry lobbying. The risk remains real for anyone who comes into contact with older building materials or certain industrial products containing this hazardous mineral fiber.
