Asbestos: The Turbulent Interface Between Science And Policy - (1991)

Asbestos: The Turbulent Interface Between Science and Policy – Legal Implications for Asbestos-Related Disease Cases

Abstract
The article "Asbestos: The Turbulent Interface Between Science and Policy" by David V. Bates, MD, FRCP, FRCPC, FACP, FRSC, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), examines the complex relationship between scientific evidence on asbestos exposure and the development of public policy. It highlights the challenges of interpreting scientific data, the variability in risk assessments, and the contentious debates surrounding asbestos regulation. The study underscores the health risks of asbestos exposure, particularly mesothelioma and lung cancer, and the difficulties in reconciling scientific uncertainty with policy decisions. This article provides a critical foundation for understanding the legal and regulatory challenges associated with asbestos-related diseases.

Legal Relevance
This article is a valuable resource for legal cases involving asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. It highlights the scientific consensus on the health risks of asbestos exposure, including the long latency periods and the role of fiber type and exposure intensity in disease development. Attorneys can use this study to establish causation by demonstrating that even low-level or environmental asbestos exposure can contribute to disease onset. The article also addresses the variability in scientific interpretation, which can help counter defense arguments that downplay the risks of asbestos exposure. Furthermore, it emphasizes the foreseeability of harm, supporting claims of negligence or liability against employers, manufacturers, or other responsible parties.

Occupation Groups at Risk
The study identifies several high-risk occupational groups, including:

• Construction Workers: Frequent exposure to asbestos-containing materials like insulation, roofing, and cement.
• Shipyard Workers: High exposure to asbestos used in shipbuilding and repair.
• Industrial Workers: Regular contact with asbestos in manufacturing and processing industries.
• Miners: Direct exposure to raw asbestos fibers during extraction and processing.
• Firefighters: Secondary exposure from asbestos in older buildings during fires.
• Mechanics: Exposure to asbestos in brake pads, clutches, and other automotive parts.

These occupations are at heightened risk due to prolonged and intense exposure to asbestos fibers, often without adequate protective measures.

Current Medical Understanding
The article aligns with current medical knowledge, which confirms that all types of asbestos fibers pose significant health risks. Amphibole asbestos, such as crocidolite and amosite, is more strongly associated with mesothelioma than chrysotile asbestos. The study reinforces the need for strict precautions in handling asbestos and supports the view that even low-level exposure can lead to severe health outcomes.

Citation
Bates, D. V. (1991). Asbestos: The turbulent interface between science and policy. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 145(4), 291-293. PMID: 1873760; PMCID: PMC1335625.

National Library of Medicine Link
For further details, visit the National Library of Medicine: Asbestos: The Turbulent Interface Between Science and Policy.

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