Throughout history, in certain countries and cultures, exposure to asbestos occurred through common household tasks. For example, women in several Mediterranean countries, like Turkey and Greece, often oversaw the task of "whitewashing" the home.
To those who live in modern times, the term whitewashing usually refers to applying a coat of white paint. Historically, however, whitewashing in these countries referred to the process of using white (asbestos-containing) soil to whitewash a house. It was also commonly used as plastering material for both interior and exterior stucco. (Such asbestos-laced soil is naturally occurring in many of these areas.) The toxic mineral was also used on roofs for insulation and prevention of water leakage. Women (and others) were exposed to dust emanating from the walls and the act of "sweeping" the room with a broom caused more dangerous fibers to circulate. Alarmingly, the white asbestos soil was also sometimes used in place of baby powder, exposing yet more individuals to this toxic mineral.
Studies done in these regions show an extremely high rate of natural asbestos exposure among women and many individuals are still living in and caring for homes where asbestos is present.
To those who live in modern times, the term whitewashing usually refers to applying a coat of white paint. Historically, however, whitewashing in these countries referred to the process of using white (asbestos-containing) soil to whitewash a house. It was also commonly used as plastering material for both interior and exterior stucco. (Such asbestos-laced soil is naturally occurring in many of these areas.) The toxic mineral was also used on roofs for insulation and prevention of water leakage. Women (and others) were exposed to dust emanating from the walls and the act of "sweeping" the room with a broom caused more dangerous fibers to circulate. Alarmingly, the white asbestos soil was also sometimes used in place of baby powder, exposing yet more individuals to this toxic mineral.
Studies done in these regions show an extremely high rate of natural asbestos exposure among women and many individuals are still living in and caring for homes where asbestos is present.
by Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center
