The lungs are the place in the body where air comes in direct contact with blood cells. In order to ensure an efficient transfer of oxygen from the air into the blood, the innermost layers of the lungs must be kept highly sterile. The sterilization of air occurs through a matrix of filtration systems, starting with the nose and the other air passages leading into the lungs. The reason asbestos is hazardous is because asbestos particles are able to bypass the lungs' filtration systems and become imbedded in the innermost layers of the lungs.
Asbestos particles are long, extremely thin, microscopic fibers. When asbestos is in the air, these particles are inhaled by those in close proximity. The fibers are so thin and light that they cannot be properly filtered by the lungs.The asbestos can become embedded in various parts of the lungs, including the interstitium (the area surrounding the alveoli).
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