Toxic Nation | Pollution. It's In You.

Health Canada has released a report by a panel of international experts that reveals a strong relationship between chrysotile asbestos and lung cancer. The release has reignited the debate about the future of the asbestos industry in Canada, especially in Quebec where the industry is focused. While all uses of all types of asbestos have been banned in Europe and Australia, Canada remains one of the world’s largest exporters of chrysotile asbestos. Canada exported $100 million worth of asbestos to developing countries in 2008.

The report panel found a significant link between chrysotile asbestos and lung cancer, and a less dominant link to a rare form of cancer called mesothelioma. Although two of the experts attached some reservations to the consensus, panelist Leslie Stayner, director of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Illinois School of Public Health, said the report makes it clear that exposure to chrysotile asbestos is not safe.

Health, environment and political advocates hope these findings will propel the Canadian government to take action on this hazardous substance, and that legislation will be based on sound science, and safety precautions, rather than industry demands.

Click here to read more on this story.