Does asbestos exposure cause lung cancer?

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Does asbestos exposure cause lung cancer?

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MedicineNet

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Although exposure to asbestos alone can lead to lung cancer, the risk increases dramatically in smokers of cigarettes or other forms of tobacco.

In nonsmokers who have been exposed to asbestos, the risk of lung cancer is five times that of unexposed workers.
In smokers who have not been exposed to asbestos, the risk of lung cancer is eleven times that of non-smokers.
In heavy smokers with asbestos exposure, the risk of lung cancer is at least 16 times higher than that of unexposed nonsmokers.

Lung cancer in asbestos-exposed and unexposed individuals is similar in both the type of cancer and its signs and symptoms. The link between cigarette smoking, asbestos and cancer of the lung itself does not apply to cancer of the lining of the lung. Diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer is a complex topic and a pulmonary specialist should be involved in the workup of a suspected lung cancer.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.

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