Recent studies argument that one of the main culprits of lung cancer is asbestos.

Asbestos has been extensively used, in the 20th century, to manufacture thousands of products, including textiles, building materials, insulations, or brake linings. Few people know that asbestos has dangerous compounds; therefore, many buildings are still covered with this material, because it provides thermal insulation, and those who live in those buildings have no idea what risks they are exposed to.  Many of the building restoration experts know what to look for, but the common homeowner does not.

Studies have shown that exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer up to six times, and it may also affect the upper respiratory tract, esophagus and kidneys. The categories of workers most exposed to this risk factor are constructors, installers, metallurgists, auto mechanics and locksmiths. The evolution of the diseases generated by exposure to asbestos is slow; in some cases, there may be even 10-20 years of no-symptomatic evolution, until something strikes.

There are also situations when, due to massive exposure, asbestos intoxication occurs in a short time. This was noticed in many people who participated in the evacuation operations following the attack of the twin towers – New York, September 11, 2001.

Inhalation of asbestos dust causes a pulmonary condition known as “asbestosis”.