The Australian National University wants more Canberrans to join a study of how loose-fill asbestos insulation affects their health.
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The ACT asbestos health study has been extended until July 8 to give former residents of so-called "Mr Fluffy" houses more time to complete its survey.
The ANU researchers aim to increase knowledge of the diseases associated with exposure to asbestos. The study's chief investigator, Associate Professor Martyn Kirk, said he was keen for more people to contribute.
"So far we have had 350 people complete the survey whilst many have only started it," he said on Friday.
"There are about 1100 Mr Fluffy homes in Canberra so we are expecting a few more responses."
The survey is the third stage in the four-stage study. It will help Professor Kirk's team evaluate how being in a Mr Fluffy house affected residents emotionally, and also allow Canberrans to raise any concerns.
Exposure to the loose-fill asbestos fibres used in Mr Fluffy houses is linked with mesothelioma and lung cancer.
About 10 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the ACT each year, but former residents of Mr Fluffy houses have expressed fears about potential late-onset health impacts from living in or renovating one of the houses.
Professor Kirk said the risk of developing the illnesses was low, as the diseases were usually only found in people who had substantial exposure to the fibres.
More information about the survey and the study itself can be found at the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health's website: nceph.anu.edu.au
