Three schools in Hidalgo, Tex. have tested positive for asbestos exposure in schools, KRGV reported in a recent article on the news website.

One elementary school, J.C. Kelly Elementary, and middle school, Diaz Junior High School, and high school, Hidalgo Early College High School were all affected. A resident in the area became aware of the situation when she noticed that construction at the high school had been halted and she asked workers what was going on, KRGV reports. The resident was told that asbestos was found, causing them to temporarily stop construction so the asbestos can be removed.

The resident raised concerns about the safety of the children, and another resident raised concerns about the children and the staff as well. She noted that not only were teachers at risk, but other staff such as custodial staff, cafeteria workers and more.

The school district sent a statement regarding the finding of asbestos exposure in schools that read:

“Currently, Hidalgo ISD is working on improving the safety of its students on several campuses within the district. As a part of the process, the district is constructing vestibules and upgrading portions of existing buildings. Like in any remodeling construction project, the current buildings are first analyzed and inspected to see what improvements can be made to existing structures before new construction begins. One of the tests conducted was to detect asbestos.

Unfortunately, when one of our buildings was originally constructed, an asbestos-based material was used with respect to the flooring. The material was used as an adhesive under the floor. At no point in time has any student or employee been exposed to the material because it was used and placed under the floor of the building. However, now that the district has an opportunity to correct the situation, it is taking advantage.

The district has engaged a company to abate all asbestos-based materials used in prior construction. Student and employee safety is top priority for Hidalgo ISD, and we will continue to be proactive in our efforts to make sure we provide a safe and secure learning environment for our students.”

The district is currently working with a company to remove the asbestos exposure in schools so students and staff are protected from any potential health dangers, the news outlet reported.

Health Concerns Following Asbestos Exposure in Schools

Three main health conditions can result from asbestos exposure in schools: asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Asbestosis occurs when the tiny fibers of the carcinogenic asbestos irritates the lungs, leading to scarring of the lungs and shortness of breath.

Many people use the terms lung cancer and mesothelioma interchangeably, but they are actually distinct conditions. Lung cancer specifically refers to a cancer that occurs inside of the lungs.

Mesothelioma specifically refers to the cancer of the mesothelial lining of various parts of the body. One of the most common locations of mesothelioma is in the mesothelial lining of the lungs. It can also occur in the mesothelial lining of the abdomen or heart, or even the prostate.

With mesothelioma, the prognosis is less favorable then for those who have dealt with asbestos exposure and lung cancer, as mesothelioma is much harder to treat.

These conditions typically take decades to develop. Since the asbestos was not detected until construction was performed at the school, it is hoped that the asbestos exposure in schools was not taking place prior to the construction, when the asbestos was left undisturbed, as it is mostly inert when left alone.

However, it is likely that the district will need to keep a close eye on the area to ensure continued safety and prevention of asbestos exposure in schools now that it has been found.