Vermiculite processing plants and mesothelioma

Investigations by ATSDR at other vermiculite processing plants across the United States found employee exposure correlates directly to a higher incidence risk for asbestos related diseases.

Asbestos fibers can cause a type of permanent lung damage known as asbestosis. People who have asbestosis often have shortness of breath and increased risk of serious lung infections.

Asbestos can also cause lung cancer, and a rare type of cancer known as mesothelioma, which affects the lining around the lungs and abdomen. It can also cause other abnormalities in the lining of the lung, called pleural plaques or pleural thickening. In some cases, these pleural changes may get worse and cause breathing difficulties.

Published reports have shown that even a relatively short-term exposure to Libby asbestos from the processing of vermiculite ore can result in asbestos disease many years later. For health-related concerns or questions please contact the local health departments.

Dr. Wayne Ball Utah Department of Health 288 North 1460 West Salt Lake City, UT 84114-2104 Phone: 801-538-6191 E-mail: wball@utah.gov

Brian Bennion Salt Lake Valley Health Department 788 East Woodoak Lane (5380 South) Murray, Utah 84107-6379 Phone: 801-313-6700 E-mail: bbennion@slco.org