Iowa ranks 28th in the nation for asbestos-related deaths which includes military veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service. In Iowa, 432 residents died from mesothelioma from 1999-2015.

Linn and Polk Counties have suffered the most asbestos-related deaths.

Exposure to asbestos may result when the fibers are released from asbestos-containing building materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, and floor tiles that are in poor condition or are disturbed. There are additional risks for exposure to asbestos in certain occupations.

Improper containment, removal or handling of asbestos materials affects workers, and potentially thousands downwind that breathe the ambient air. A contaminated worker or passerby can easily carry home microscopic particles on skin, clothes and shoes to expose family members and is especially dangerous for children.

There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure, and medical research indicates these fibers can cause severe lung diseases and cancer. This is why it is important to identify asbestos-containing materials in your home so you can protect your health.

Workers who are exposed to asbestos have increased changes of getting two principal types of cancer -- cancer of the lung tissue itself and mesothelioma. Lung cancer is usually fatal, while mesothesolioma is almost always fatal.

You are required to notify the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) as well as the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) of asbestos abatement. A contractor must notify DIAL at least 10 working days in advance of any asbestos abatement or removal project.