With the increase in the number of lung cancer cases in recent years, it’s vitally important to educate ourselves on the risks plus consequences of asbestos exposure which accounts for over 80% of all mesothelioma cancer cases; a form of cancer, caused by asbestos exposure, that can affect the lungs (Pleural form), abdomen (Peritoneal form), plus even the membrane around the heart.. A hefty 2000 new cases are being diagnosed every year according to the National Cancer Institute, plus that number is on the rise. This leaves the query to be asked…
how dangerous is asbestos exposure?
Tobacco smokers who have been exposed to asbestos have a “far greater-than-additive” risk for lung cancer than do nonsmokers who have been exposed, meaning the risk is greater than the individual risks from asbestos plus smoking added together. The time between diagnosis of mesothelioma plus the time of initial occupational exposure to asbestos commonly has been 30 years or more.
Significant exposure to any type of asbestos will increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma plus nonmalignant lung plus pleural disorders, including asbestosis, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, plus pleural effusions. This is based on observations of these diseases in groups of workers with cumulative exposures ranging from about 5 to 1,200 fiber-year/mL. The conclusion is supported by results from animal plus mechanistic studies.
Asbestos Facts:
1. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, most fibers are expelled, but some can become lodged in the lungs plus remain there throughout life. Fibers can accumulate plus cause scarring plus inflammation. scarring plus inflammation can affect breathing, leading to disease.
2. People are more likely to experience asbestos-related disorders when they are exposed to high concentrations of asbestos, are exposed for longer periods of time, and/or are exposed more often.
3. Inhaling longer, more durable asbestos fibers (such as tremolite plus other amphiboles) contributes to the severity of asbestos-related disorders.
5. Changes in the lining of the lungs (pleura) such as thickening, plaques, calcification, plus liquid around the lungs (pleural effusion) may be early signs of asbestos exposure. These changes can affect breathing more than previously thought. Pleural effusion can be an early warning sign for mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lungs).
4. Exposure to asbestos, including tremolite, can increase the likelihood of lung cancer, mesothelioma, plus non-malignant lung conditions such as asbestosis (restricted use of the lungs due to retained asbestos fibers) plus changes in the lung lining.
7. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after the first exposure to asbestos.
6. Most cases of asbestosis or lung cancer in workers occurred 15 years or more after the person was first exposed to asbestos.
9. Health effects from asbestos exposure may continue to progress even after exposure is stopped.
8. Mesothelioma has been diagnosed in asbestos workers, relatives members, plus residents who live close to asbestos mines.
10. Smoking or cigarette smoke, together with exposure to asbestos, greatly increases the likelihood of lung cancer.
Signs plus Symptoms of asbestosis can include:
Shortness of breath which is the primary symptom
A persistent plus productive cough (a cough that expels mucus)
Chest pain Loss of appetite
Chest tightness
If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos, speak with your physician immediately plus discuss your level of exposure. Early detection of mesothelioma increases your chances immeasurably.
A dry, crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling.