The Complex Legacy of Asbestos – April 8 Event
Written by Communications, March 29, 2019
Free Event Showcasing Italian City’s Tragedy and Triumph over a Serious Occupational Health Hazard
Peterborough Public Health invites local residents to hear the powerful story of one community’s experience tackling a major occupational health hazard in a free event called “The Complex Legacy of Asbestos” taking place on Monday, April 8 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The event features a presentation by delegates from the Italian city of Casale Monferrato (pop. 36,000) who will share their first-hand experience addressing the health effects of a large asbestos cement factory that operated there for 80 years. Before it closed in 1988, exposures in the workplace and throughout the city caused more than 1,000 cases of mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos that is almost always fatal.
“We are humbled to host this important delegation in order to share what they learned about mobilizing a community to eliminate asbestos from the environment,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “We expect this event will resonate with local families and healthcare providers who also have advocated tirelessly to address occupational health issues related to the industrial heritage of the Peterborough area.”
This event is the latest installment in Peterborough Public Health’s 130th anniversary celebrations. “Peterborough Public Health has played a vital role in workers’ health, from training physicians in taking occupational health histories, to helping set up occupational health clinics for GE workers back in the 1990s,” explained Dr. Salvaterra.
“The Complex Legacy of Asbestos” event takes place at Peterborough Public Health, located on 185 King St. and is free of charge. Free parking is available across the road at the King St. Parkade. To register, visit www.eventbrite.ca and search for “Legacy of Asbestos” or call 705-743-1000, ext. 363.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391