Breathing asbestos for long periods of time can cause tiny asbestos fibers to get stuck in the lungs and irritate lung tissues, causing a host of health conditions including lung infections and cancer. That’s why asbestos should only be handled by licensed professionals who know how to properly remove or contain this dangerous material.

Risk factors for asbestos-related health conditions:

• How much asbestos is in the air
• How often and for how long exposure occurs
• How much time has passed since exposure began
• Whether you already have lung or breathing conditions
• Whether you smoke

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), studies have shown that asbestos exposure can cause:

• Asbestosis – a scarring in the lungs
• Pleural disease – a lung condition that causes changes in the membrane surrounding the lungs and chest cavity
• Lung cancer – a malignant tumor that invades and blocks the lung’s air passages.
• Mesothelioma – a rare cancer of the membrane that covers the lungs and chest cavity.

What to do if You are Concerned About Asbestos Exposure

Visit your doctor or other medical provider for testing. After exposure occurs, asbestos can’t be removed from the lungs but your doctor will advise you on steps you can take to help prevent further injury. Topping the list: avoiding further asbestos exposure.

For more information about the health risks of asbestos exposure, visit www.cdc.gov or www.cancer.gov.