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There are products that still contain asbestos, but they were typically installed decades ago. Common places where you may still find asbestos-containing materials are in siding, wrapped around ductwork, in older appliances (i.e., stove and gravity furnaces), and in floors. Asbestos was primarily used as an insulator, so anywhere in an older home where you lose heat is where you will most likely find asbestos.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the use of asbestos pipe insulation in certain applications in 1975. It released further bans in 1989 and 2019. While asbestos pipe insulation was common from the 1930s to 1970s, its use fell off after the 1970s due to public concern and the EPA's actions.

According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos-related diseases can take anywhere from 10 to 40 years for symptoms to appear. The health risks increase with prolonged and heavier exposure. Risk factors also include:

• Amount of exposure

• Chemical makeup, size, and shape of the asbestos fibers

• Length of time a person is exposed to asbestos

• Genetic factors 

• Source of exposure (direct exposure or secondhand exposure from someone directly exposed)

The signs of asbestos exposure are often subtle and may not appear for many years, or even decades, after initial contact. This long latency period is one of the primary dangers associated with asbestos.

When symptoms do manifest, they can include:

• Shortness of breath

• A persistent, dry cough

• Chest pain or tightness

• Fatigue

• Wheezing

• Weight loss

• Difficulty swallowing

• A dry, crackling sound from the lungs when breathing

These symptoms are non-specific and can be mistaken for other respiratory conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious diseases as the asbestos fibers cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs. These conditions include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Due to the vague nature of early symptoms, regular medical check-ups are crucial for anyone with a known history of asbestos exposure, particularly in an occupational setting. If you suspect asbestos is present in your home, a professional inspection is recommended.