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Lung Cancer

In addition to causing mesothelioma cancer, asbestos is also known to cause lung cancer in people who were exposed to this dangerous material in the workplace, home, or other environment. According to medical research the risk of developing lung cancer after exposure to asbestos increases with cigarette smoking.

Asbestos-related lung cancer
Asbestos, when airborne, can be inhaled into the lungs, where it can prompt cancerous cell proliferations in the bronchial lining. Cancerous cells may also develop in the trachea, the air sacs of the lungs, or the small branches of the bronchi after asbestos exposure. Like mesothelioma, lung cancer from asbestos can take a long time to develop, and symptoms may not develop for decades after the initial exposure.

Types of asbestos-related lung cancer
There are two types of lung cancer:

• small cell lung cancer (SCLC): the cancer cells are round and small; accounts for 20% of all lung cancer
• non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): the cancer cells are larger; accounts for 80% of all lung cancer.
• Some people also develop mixed small cell/large cell cancer.

Symptoms of asbestos lung cancer
Symptoms of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure can include:

• Chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Persistent cough and/or wheezing
• Returning bronchitis or pneumonia
• Coughing up reddish-brown phlegm

Many of these lung cancer symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other medical conditions, including mesothelioma. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your health care provider as soon as possible. Early detection of lung cancer is crucial to protecting and prolonging your life.