Studies have proved that lung cancer is increasingly affecting
asbestos-workers. Dose-response relationship has bolstered the fact
that asbestos-workers, who are smokers, are at great risks of
contracting this lethal disease.
Asbestos Lung Cancer: General Information
Asbestos lung cancer, clinically known as Mesothelioma, is a type of
cancer that is caused due to inhalation of asbestos particles. It
initially affects the internal lining of the bronchi, an organ inside
both the lungs. However, it can also affect other areas of the human
body such as the trachea, bronchioles, or alveoli. Asbestos lung
cancer is known to progress at a slow pace. Sometimes these cells
divide rapidly and then spread to other parts. It has also been found
to affect heart, abdomen and reproductive organs.
There are two most common types of lung cancer: Small cell lung cancer
(SCLC), constituting about 80% of lung cancer cases, and non-small
cell lung cancer (NSCLC) which constitutes about 20% of lung cancer
cases. There is also a third type called mixed small cell/large cell
cancer. It has features of both types and hence the name. The cancer
cells multiply rapidly and result in tumors. These tumors spread to
the lymph node and other organs. In its initial stage, the disease is
asymptomatic. As the disease has a long "window-period", the symptoms
such as shortness of breath and chest pain do not show for a long
period. In order to diagnose the Asbestos lung cancer at an initial
stage, one needs to perform imaging tests, biopsies, and taking phlegm
samples.
A physician may perform auscultation for any irregular sound, which is
characteristic of Asbestos lung cancer, and suggest an x-ray to detect
any irregular opaque areas in the lungs. However, x-ray findings
cannot be completely relied upon. At times, they may
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