Our bodies are unable to process and eliminate most asbestos fibers. When inhaled, asbestos fibers remain in our body and can cause disease. There are several types of cancer associated with asbestos inhalation. The three most common types are mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs most frequently in the lining of the lung (the pleura) or in the abdomen (the peritoneum). About 200 cases of Mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. The major known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. No cure has been developed for mesothelioma.
Asbestosis is a scarring of the lung tissue and causes shortness of breath. Asbestosis is disabling, and/or fatal.
Lung cancer is caused or contributed to by exposure to asbestos. Most lung cancer cases are found in clients who also have a significant smoking history. Asbestos has a synergistic effect with cigarette smoke. Synergism relates to the fact that in a smoking, asbestos-exposed person, the relative risks are multiplied such that the person's risk of developing lung cancer may be increased 50 fold or more.
The information provided in this site is general in nature and constitutes neither legal nor medical advice. If you are concerned that you or someone you know is at risk of an asbestos-related disease, please consult your physician and an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation cases.
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