AsbestosAsbestos Diseases
Mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases, and nearly all cases of this cancer can be attributed to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and treat, and while uncommon, malignant mesothelioma can no longer be considered rare.
Lung Cancer
People who have been exposed to asbestos and who also smoke are about five times more likely than non-smokers to develop malignant cells in their lungs. Lung cancer is the most common asbestos related cancer.
Asbestosis
Though some less-experienced physicians mistankingly use asbestosis as an umbrella term to refer to all asbestos related diseases, asbestosis is actually a very specific condition marked by the scarring of the lung tissue from inhaling asbestos fibers that have been released into the air.
Pleural Disease
A patient who shows scarring of the lining of the lung or pleura, shows signs that he or she may be at risk for developing more serious disease. This condition indicates a major physiological response to asbestos exposure.
