Asbestos Cancer

Asbestos Cancer

Exposure to asbestos can lead to a number of serious conditions, including cancer. Asbestos cancer often refers to mesotheliomaspecifically, but may also be referring to other asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis and asbestos lung cancer. Asbestos has also been linked in some cases to other more common types of cancer, like breast cancer.

Asbestos exposure has been a global threat for many years, and continues to be an issue even with more countries banning the mineral. The durable mineral was used for centuries around the world in so many industries because of its heat and chemical resistance, and is still prominent in certain parts of the world despite knowing its health risks for many years. Its history and continued use puts millions around the world at risk of asbestos exposure.

Types of Asbestos Cancer

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of asbestos cancer diagnosed in 2,400 to 2,800 people in the U.S. each year.

Asbestos Lung Cancer

Researchers estimate about 4% of all lung cancer cases can be linked to asbestos exposure.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition that leads to long-term breathing problems and can develop into cancer.

Other Cancers

Asbestos has also been linked in some cases to other types of cancer like ovarian and colon cancer.

Though these cancers and conditions caused by asbestos are quite rare, they highlight a global burden with cases expected to continue to increase for some time. According to data from the Centers of Disease Control, asbestos cancers cause at least around 12,000 deaths in the United States each year.

Diagnosing Asbestos Cancer

Across all types of asbestos cancers, the first signs of disease are typically nonspecific. The symptoms can be as vague as a persistent cough, chest pain or shortness of breath, signs that can be associated with other, less serious conditions or other types of cancer. The symptoms will vary depending on the origin of the cancer, like the lungs, lung lining or the abdominal cavity.

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