Other Asbestos Related Diseases

Lung Cancer:

Asbestos-caused lung cancers can be of all different cell types (squamous cell, adenocarcinoma, small cell and large cell) and can occur in all areas of the lung. While lung cancer is often associated with cigarette smoking, asbestos plays a significant role in the development of lung cancers. Asbestosis is strongly linked with the development of lung cancer. “Pleural plaquing” is a hallmark of asbestos inhalation and the presence of pleural plaques in instances of lung cancer evidences the role asbestos played in the cancer’s development.

Asbestos is a carcinogen–it causes cancer. It typically enters the body through breathing and attacks the respiratory system, especially the lungs. A person who has been exposed to asbestos and who smokes has a far greater chance of developing lung cancer than a smoker without asbestos exposure.

Asbestosis:

Asbestosis is a fibrotic disease characterized by permanent scarring of the lung tissue itself. Asbestosis is usually accompanied by pleural plaques and, depending on its severity, may result in lung impairment. Those who suffer from significant asbestosis have progressive shortness of breath and fatigue.

Pleural Plaquing:

Pleural Plaquing is the most benign form of asbestos disease. Essentially, pleural plaques are calcified scars in the pleura. Since the pleura does not affect the functioning of the lungs, this condition is considered a marker of exposure. Pleural plaques may take as long as 20 years to develop from your date of first exposure to asbestos.