asbestos-related diseases

Asbestos-related diseases are health problems caused by inhaling tiny asbestos fibers, which are mineral fibers once used in construction. When disturbed, these fibers can lodge in the lungs and other tissues, leading to inflammation and scarring. Common conditions include asbestosis (lung fibrosis), mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen), and lung cancer. Symptoms often develop years after exposure and may include shortness of breath, chest pain, or a persistent cough. These diseases are serious and can be fatal, highlighting the importance of preventing exposure and monitoring individuals at risk.