Respiratory-related quality of life among people exposed to Libby asbestos

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore respiratory-related quality of life among people that have been exposed to Libby amphibole asbestos. This thesis analyzed data from a descriptive research study conducted by a team from Montana State University College of Nursing in collaboration with the Center for Asbestos-Related Diseases (CARD) clinic in Libby from September 1, 2006 through August 31, 2007. The main goal of the parent study was to examine the bio-psychosocial health status of persons exposed to Libby amphibole asbestos. This thesis augments that work by examining respiratory-related quality of life from a Libby sample and comparing with other groups reported in the scientific literature. Findings show that overall respiratory-related quality of life for persons exposed to Libby asbestos was similar to other respiratory-related disease cohorts. Implications to nursing practice and limitations of the study are discussed.