A number of illnesses are linked to
exposure to asbestos fibres, namely :
Asbestosis is the scarring of the tissue of the lung through inhaling asbestos fibres. Many people who do not have a good understanding of asbestos-related diseases tend to use the term "asbestosis" as a buzzword for any and all conditions related to asbestos.
Lung cancer occurs when malignant cells grow in the lung. It is the most common asbestos-related cancer found in present or ex-smokers who have a history of asbestos exposure.
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer of the lung lining, difficult to diagnose and poorly responsive to therapy. Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. Virtually all cases of malignant mesothelioma are attributable to asbestos exposure.
Pleural disease is scarring of the pleura -- the lining of the lung. It is evidence of sustaining a heavy enough response to asbestos to be at substantial risk for more serious disease.
Other asbestos-related cancers The relationship between asbestos exposure and asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer has been clearly established and is beyond argument. Several other cancers should be noted. They are: gastrointestinal cancer affecting all sites in the gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach, colon and rectum) and cancer of the larynx.
Asbestos warts Asbestos bodies, also termed "ferruginous bodies", result when asbestos fibres become coated with a substance containing protein and iron. These asbestos bodies are not harmful, and like pleural plaques, serve as evidence of asbestos exposure. Asbestos warts are harmless but very unsightly skin growths that occur when asbestos fibres penetrate the skin.