Reference
OpenAI's Answer
Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to several serious health conditions, including:
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Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath, typically from prolonged exposure (Mayo Clinic).
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Lung Cancer: Asbestos can cause lung cancer; risk increases with cigarette smoking (American Cancer Society).
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Mesothelioma: A rare cancer of the pleura (the lining of the lung) or peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) directly linked to asbestos exposure (World Health Organization).
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Other Cancers: Asbestos exposure is also linked to cancer of the larynx and ovaries.
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Pleural Disorders: Non-cancerous conditions affecting the lining of the lungs, such as pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and benign pleural effusions (National Cancer Institute).
These conditions often develop many years after exposure, making early detection and prevention essential.