"Asbestos --- a group of minerals that includes chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite and actinolite --- is one of the most important occupational carcinogens. At least 107 000 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases, including lung cancer. Even though the use of asbestos has declined in many countries, chrysotile is still widely used, particularly in developing countries. This publication on chrysotile asbestos is divided into three parts. The first part reproduces a WHO short information document for decision-makers on the elimination of asbestos-related diseases. The second part addresses questions commonly raised in policy discussions, specifically to assist decision-makers. The third part is a technical summary of the health effects of chrysotile, which brings together and summarizes for the first time the most recent authoritative WHO evaluations performed by its International Agency for Research on Cancer and its International Programme on Chemical Safety. The technical summary also reviews results from key studies published after those evaluations and the conclusions drawn from WHO assessments of alternatives. The publication will be of interest to all government officials who need to make informed decisions about management of the health risks associated with exposure to chrysotile asbestos.""--Page 4 of cover.