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Asbestos, once hailed as a miracle material for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, has left a devastating legacy as a potent carcinogen. The association between asbestos and cancer is well-established, with a particular focus on two main types: lung cancer and mesothelioma. This lethal mineral, found in numerous industrial and construction applications, poses a significant threat to human health due to its ability to cause DNA damage and cell mutations, ultimately leading to cancer development.​
​Lung Cancer: Perhaps the most widely recognized link between asbestos and cancer is the heightened risk of lung cancer among individuals exposed to asbestos fibers. Inhalation of asbestos particles can lead to the accumulation of fibers in the lungs over time. These fibers cause chronic inflammation and scarring, which can promote the development of lung cancer. Smokers who are also exposed to asbestos face an even greater risk, as the combined effects of tobacco smoke and asbestos significantly elevate their chances of developing lung cancer.
Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Asbestos exposure is the primary known cause of mesothelioma, with a latency period that can extend for decades after initial exposure. The sharp, needle-like asbestos fibers can embed themselves in the protective mesothelial lining, leading to inflammation, cellular damage, and the eventual development of mesothelioma tumors.
​​​Other Cancers: In addition to lung cancer and mesothelioma, asbestos exposure has been associated with an increased risk of other cancers including colon, throat, laryngeal, and stomach cancers. While the mechanisms behind these associations are not as well understood as those for lung cancer and mesothelioma, it is believed that the chronic inflammation triggered by asbestos fibers, along with DNA damage, plays a role in promoting these malignancies.
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