Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It is not a type of cancer in itself, but it can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Asbestos cancers (asbestos induced cancers) are caused by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers (naturally occurring heat-resistant minerals). The fibers can embed in tissues and organ linings. Over time, this can cause inflammation, mutation and cancer. Asbestos cancers include:
- mesothelioma
- lung cancer
- ovarian cancer
- laryngeal cancer.
How Does Asbestos Cause Cancer?
Inhaling or swallowing asbestos fibers can cause cancer. Asbestos is a mineral made of microscopic fibers. Once the fibers enter the body, they cannot be broken down or removed. As a result, the fibers can cause irritation and inflammation. Over time, asbestos can cause genetic mutations and cancer.
Many asbestos diseases are latent diseases. In other words, it can take years for asbestos cancer symptoms to emerge. Mesothelioma and asbestos lung cancer patients often aren’t diagnosed until 10 – 50 years after their first exposure.
Types of Cancer Caused by Asbestos
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), cancers definitively caused by asbestos include:
Mesothelioma
- Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma.
- Asbestos fibers can become lodged in organ linings (mesothelium).
- Mesothelioma cancer typically occurs within the lungs or the abdomen.
Lung Cancer
- Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lung tissues.
- Asbestos lung cancer symptoms may take more than a decade to emerge.
- Smoking increases the risk of developing asbestos-related lung cancer.
Ovarian Cancer
- Asbestos can reach the ovaries by traveling through the reproductive system, bloodstream or lymphatic system.
- Studies continue to research the connection between asbestos-contaminated talcum powder and ovarian cancer.
Laryngeal Cancer
- Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the tissues of the voice box when traveling to the lungs.
- Smoking, heavy alcohol use and exposure to other toxins can increase the risk of asbestos-related laryngeal cancer.
If you have asbestosis, it is important to see a healthcare provider regularly and undergo screenings for lung cancer, mesothelioma or the other related cancers. Early detection of these cancers can improve the chances of successful treatment.