Tough to Swallow - A discussion of asbestos cement drinking water supply pipes

About this Webinar: When Canadians turn on the tap for a drink of water or a shower, we take for granted that the water is safe. Few are aware that old asbestos cement water pipes still deliver water to millions of people. As these pipes age and deteriorate, asbestos erodes into the water and poses health concerns, including cancer.
Dr. Meg Sears, Chair of the Board of Prevent Cancer Now, and board member Julian Branch will talk about the history of asbestos in water, the science behind ingested asbestos, and recent developments.
You can find the slides to this presentation here: www.slideshare...
About the Presenters:
Meg Sears (PhD) has advanced environmental health for decades, and as Chair of Prevent Cancer Now she works to “make least-toxic the norm.” She was trained in Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry (University of Toronto) and biochemical engineering (PhD, McGill), and has diverse laboratory experience including energy research. With skills in scientific analysis and writing, she later gained associations with medical researchers. Some highlights include: the “Medical Perspective on Environmental Sensitivities” for the Canadian Human Rights Commission, leading to a policy under the Canadian Human Rights Act; a CIHR and SSHRC funded review of environmental, public health and medical approaches for toxic elements; three guidance documents addressing toxicants, indoor environments, and COVID-19 with the Canadian Committee on Indoor Air Quality; and rich collaborations with Canadian environmental health and policy organizations. When she is not working, you’ll probably find Meg roaming the outdoors, or “playing in the mud,” gardening.
Julian (Jay) Branch comes from a background in journalism and strategic communications. His interests in these areas led him to take a close look at the millions of kilometres of old asbestos cement (AC) water pipes around the world, and the issue of ingested asbestos. There has been a gradual, grudging acceptance that drinking asbestos from deteriorated water pipes is likely not the best thing for humans. Asbestos is regulated in water in the United States. It is not regulated in water in Canada, and in several other countries around the globe. That needs to change. Jay strongly believes that persistence pays off, and democracy dies in darkness. When he isn’t busy with the asbestos file, he can be found enjoying the great outdoors, and time with his family.
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