Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used for centuries for its strength and insulation properties. Unfortunately, these same properties also make asbestos fibers hazardous if inhaled. Asbestos-related lung cancers, known as mesothelioma, emerge long after initial exposure and diagnosis is difficult, thus making them hard to treat without dramatic lifestyle changes.
Asbestos has been known to cause several types of cancers, but lung cancer is the most common and is usually associated with a persons occupational exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, become embedded in the tissues of the lungs, causing chronic irritation and inflammation. This can lead to genetic cell mutations and the development of malignant tumor growth.
Although the exact cause of mesothelioma is not known, there is no doubt that asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Studies have shown a strong correlation between working with asbestos-containing materials and lung cancer. People who work in construction, the automotive industry and other trades more commonly exposed to asbestos fibers are at an increased risk for developing lung cancer from asbestos-related illnesses. Those who live near hazardous waste sites where asbestos may have been dumped are also at a greater risk for lung cancer.
The link between asbestos and lung cancer is so strong that the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified asbestos as a human carcinogen, and in many countries, it is now illegal to use or manufacture asbestos products.
Symptoms of asbestos-related lung cancer are often similar to those of other respiratory diseases. These symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and a persistent cough. These symptoms may also be signs of other lung diseases, so it is important to have a doctor diagnose the correct cause as soon as possible.
Diagnosis of asbestos-related lung cancer usually requires a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as an x-ray, CT scan, and/or lung biopsy. Once the presence of a tumor is confirmed, a treatment plan can be determined. The most common treatment for lung cancer is surgery, combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy, depending on the size and spread of the cancer.
In addition to treatment and lifestyle changes, it is also important for people who have been exposed to asbestos to get regular checkups with their doctor. Regular checkups can help catch symptoms early, to prevent or slow down progression of the disease.
Due to its long latency period, asbestos-related lung cancer often isn’t diagnosed until the disease has advanced. As such, it is important for people to receive medical attention as soon as they begin experiencing any of the symptoms associated with this illness. Early detection can help prevent more serious health complications and may even save lives.
