Asbestos-Related Disease

Asbestos exposure results in a spectrum of respiratory diseases. Both mesothelioma and lung cancer are directly associated with exposure to asbestos usually after a long latency period, whereas other noncancerous diseases such as asbestosis result in crippling debility. Nonetheless, asbestos has proven to be a useful and valued mineral for thousands of years. In this review, the history, diagnosis, and societal costs of asbestos use are explored.