Asbestos-ridden former YMCA building to be demolished due to mesothelioma cancer fears

Exposure to asbestos material has residents of La Grange, Illinois concerned. For the former Rich Port YMCA building is contaminated with the toxic material.

Asbestos is a group of fibrous rock-forming minerals that occur naturally in the environment. The fire-resistant mineral was widely used in the past for insulation, roofing and piping. When inhaled, the material poses a serious health risk for those exposed.

Asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer are just a few of the diseases to arise from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is the most rare and aggressive, affecting 2,000-3,000 Americans each year. The cancer typically affects the internal lining of the pleura–the lung and chest cavity.

Symptoms to arise from mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath and chest pain, lie dormant for several decades. Due to this, mesothelioma doctors find difficulty in diagnosing patients who are unaware of their bleak condition.

The former YMCA building will be demolished, in hopes of quelling residents’ growing concerns.

The building was vacated three years ago after asbestos was discovered on the property. At that time, all YMCA services were temporarily moved to an alternate location–while the organization attempted to negotiate a sale of the property.

Due to the unsure economy, and opposition from community members, the building’s owners, Atlantic Realty Partners, wish to demolish the building instead.

The building is set to be demolished sometime this month.