Asbestos Related Diseases

Asbestos is a very potent cancer causing agent.  All types of asbestos fibers can easily become airborne.  The extremely small size and shape of asbestos fibers means that they can be easily inhaled into the lungs.  Once inside the body, the fibers persist for a long time causing damage that may worsen over time.  Eventually, exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural plaques.

Mesothelioma is not the only type of cancer or condition caused by asbestos. Occupational exposure to asbestos is also associated with a higher incidence of lung cancer, particularly among smokers. There are also non-malignant lung diseases caused by inhalation of asbestos dust, including asbestosis and pleural plaques.

Read more in the following articles about these diseases caused by asbestos exposure.

If you think that you may have been exposed to asbestos or are suffering from an asbestos related disease, you should be sure to tell your doctor. People in high risk groups, such as those with known occupational exposure or take home exposure, should consult their physician and have regular physical exams.