ABSTRACT
Asbestos is a mineral fiber commonly used in various products, such as roofs. The fiber of asbestos, in all its forms, is considered a carcinogen by several international institutions. Due to the carcinogenic power, asbestos has been banned in 66 countries. Besides the occupational exposure, there is the environmental risk. This article aimed to contribute for a decision, mainly by Brazilian public authorities, towards the ban. The Rio+20 conference, which will be performed in June 2012, in the city of Rio de Janeiro, is the opportunity to resolve issues related to the public health and health promotion, removing environmentally harmful materials such as asbestos.
KEYWORDS
Asbestos; Mesothelioma; Ban asbestos