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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)

In the event of suspected or confirmed asbestos contamination on the body, it is imperative to take immediate measures to reduce health risks. To avoid further exposure, carefully remove contaminated clothing and shower thoroughly to remove any asbestos fibers. Seek prompt medical attention, and inform your healthcare professional about your suspected asbestos exposure. Since asbestos-related health issues can take years to surface, regular medical check-ups are advised for anyone with a history of exposure.

Vermiculite insulation that comes from a particular mine before 1990 is likely to contain asbestos. This is particularly true in the U.S. However, not all types of vermiculite insulation contain asbestos. Since you can't detect the presence of asbestos without special equipment, it's best to assume that the insulation contains the dangerous mineral and to either leave it alone or hire a professional to handle it.

Unfortunately, home inspections do not check for asbestos because of the liability factor involved. That’s why you should hire a trained professional with specialized equipment to test for it. 

They will inspect all areas of the home and take samples of various materials to test. Opting for an asbestos inspection can prevent the risk of exposure to this hazardous material and save on costly repairs that may be required.