It is estimated that 4,000 Australians die each year from asbestos-related diseases. A person can show signs of more than one asbestos-related disease. Symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure. Asbestos exposure can cause asbestos-related diseases and conditions, including:
- asbestosis
- lung cancer
- mesothelioma
- asbestos-related pleural diseases (ARPDs).
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic condition caused by inflammation or scarring in the lungs. It is caused by heavy, prolonged exposure to asbestos. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and permanent lung damage.
Lung cancer
Asbestos exposure can cause cancerous tumors to grow inside the lungs. These tumors mainly occur in the:
- lining of the tubes leading to the lungs
- smaller airways
- middle of the lungs.
- Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. It develops in the tissue that lines body cavities, especially the chest and abdomen. Between 700-800 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The average time between diagnosis and death is 11 months (AIHW, 2019). About 90% of all Australian mesothelioma patients have had significant exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos-related pleural diseases (ARPDs)
Asbestos-related pleural diseases (ARPDs) are a range of conditions that affect the lungs and chest. ARPDs are a slow-onset progressive condition. Shortness of breath and chest pain are common symptoms.
Pleural plaques
Pleural plaques are often the earliest sign of exposure to asbestos. They create white, smooth, raised scar tissue on the outer lining of the lungs, internal chest wall, and diaphragm. If pleural plaques are your only asbestos-related symptom, there may be a few lung issues.
To reduce the risk of asbestos-related diseases, it is essential to take precautions when working in environments where asbestos may be present. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following safety protocols, and adhering to occupational safety regulations. If you suspect past exposure to asbestos or experience symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it is crucial to seek medical advice and inform your healthcare provider of the potential asbestos exposure. Early detection and medical monitoring can be essential for managing asbestos-related diseases.