What Diseases Can Be Caused By Asbestos?

Asbestos is a fibrous, naturally occurring mineral that has been widely used in various industries throughout history. Its resistance to heat, fire, and corrosion made asbestos a popular building material and frequently utilized in construction, manufacturing, mining, and numerous other fields. Despite its versatility, many countries have banned the usage of asbestos because of the significant threat asbestos poses to public health. When asbestos fibers are inhaled they pose a risk of causing various serious diseases, which are discussed below.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer which forms in the thin tissue lining the organs. There are four primary types of mesothelioma: pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, and testicular. Pleural mesothelioma, affecting the lining of the lungs, stands as the most prevalent form. Exposure to asbestos accounts for over 80% of mesothelioma cases. Mesothelioma has an extremely long latency period, meaning the exposure to asbestos and the development of the disease may be anywhere from ten to fifty years.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition from exposure to asbestos fibers that causes scarring of the lung tissue. Prolonged exposure to asbestos by inhalation of asbestos fibers causes asbestosis. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain. Asbestosis may lead to breathing difficulties and an increased risk of respiratory infections.

Lung cancer

There are two main types of lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The majority of lung cancers are NSCLC. Asbestos exposure can significantly increase the risk of developing lung cancer, especially in smokers. Symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, weight loss, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Ovarian cancer

Recent studies have shown a link between asbestos exposure and the development of ovarian cancer. Asbestos fibers can travel through the bloodstream into one or both of the ovaries. Exposure to asbestos can greatly increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer, especially frequent exposure over a long period of time. Symptoms may include abdominal bloating or swelling, quickly feeling full when eating, weight loss, discomfort in the pelvic area, fatigue, frequent urination, and back pain.

Asbestos exposure may be the cause of any of these diseases and may have devastating consequences. If you have ever been exposed to asbestos, or believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, please speak with your doctor.