Mesothelioma

By far the most serious of the asbestos related conditions, mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lungs. It is caused only by exposure to asbestos, and though it can occur by just one fibre of asbestos entering the lung, it is most common in individuals who have worked in those industries which used vast amounts of asbestos, such as ship building, construction and railway engineering, as well as asbestos product manufacturing. However an increasing number of cases are occurring in those who had less intense exposure such as plumbers, electricians and carpenters.

Family members who have been in contact with asbestos fibres, handling the clothing of an asbestos worker are also at risk. This is known as secondary exposure.   

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