Asbestos Related Diseases
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Understanding Asbestos-Related Diseases
This guide provides detailed information on the various diseases caused by asbestos exposure, focusing on their impact on lung health.
Main Asbestos-Related Diseases
Asbestos becomes a major health hazard when its fibres are inhaled and reach the lungs. The following are five critical diseases associated with asbestos exposure:
1. Pleural Plaques
Pleural plaques are areas of fibrous thickening on the lining of the lungs or diaphragm. They are often an indicator of asbestos exposure but may not cause symptoms themselves.
2. Pleural Thickening
Pleural thickening involves the thickening and hardening of the pleura (lung lining), which can restrict lung expansion, leading to breathlessness.
3. Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a lung disease resulting from the inhalation of asbestos fibres, leading to lung scarring and severe breathing difficulties.
4. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer, a malignant tumour in the lung's tissue, can be significantly linked to asbestos exposure, especially in individuals who also smoke.
5. Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs, strongly associated with asbestos exposure, often manifesting many years after contact.