US EPA

3099404 

Journal Article 

Consideration of an Old Problem. The Effects of Chrysotile Dust 

Donna, A 

1986 

Yes 

Accomplishments in Oncology
ISSN: 0887-056X 

NIOSH/00176886 

1 

2 

69-73 

Data on incidence of asbestos (1332214) related pneumoconiosis and lung cancer in occupationally exposed workers in Italy were summarized with special emphasis on pathologic effects of chrysotile (12001295) dust. Relevant studies presented in the literature were reviewed and cases referred to the Italian Mesothelioma Register (IMR) were analyzed for the updated incidence rates and trends in mesothelioma in Italy; but differences between chrysotile and other asbestos fibers in inducing pulmonary fibrotic changes could not be ascertained by means of epidemiologic studies. One report did suggest an association of crocidolite (12001284) in pulmonary fibrosis. Worker exposure to pure chrysotile occurs in brake and friction material manufacturing facilities located mainly in northern Italy. Lung cancer and chrysotile exposure was investigated in another study that found 11 malignancies (only one mesothelioma) in a cohort of 952 male workers vs 10.4 expected a relative risk1.06 times higher than in the general population. Data from the IMR on rates of mesothelioma from 1976 to 1985 provided 89 cases. In discussion of these epidemiologic studies, the author notes that, although asbestos, especially chrysotile, may work as a tumor promoter in serosal tissue, or as a genotoxic agent, other proven carcinogenic substances in the environment target the mesothelium. Finding peculiar incidence patterns in agricultural areas close to those with asbestos pollution suggests a two step mechanism in which asbestos exposure produces chromosomal damage as a ground for modulatory activity of other substances. 

DCN-164617; Asbestos fibers; Biological effects; Lung cancer; Pathology; Occupational exposure; Pulmonary disorders; Lung fibrosis; Asbestos workers; Neoplasms; Epidemiology; 1332-21-4; 12001-29-5; 12001-28-4