What is a primary health risk associated with asbestos exposure?

The primary health risk associated with asbestos exposure is respiratory diseases like asbestosis. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that, when inhaled, can become lodged in the lungs and lead to significant long-term health issues. Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, which results in lung scarring and reduced lung capacity. This condition often manifests with symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, progressing over time due to ongoing fibrosis.

Asbestos exposure is also linked to other serious respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, a specific cancer of the lining of the lungs and chest wall. The nature of asbestos fibers and their long-term presence in the lungs is what renders these respiratory diseases a significant health risk for individuals exposed to asbestos in various occupational settings.

In contrast, dental cavities, heart disease, and vision problems are not directly linked to asbestos exposure and do not constitute the primary health risks associated with it. Therefore, the focus on asbestosis and similar respiratory complications underscores the critical understanding needed in the field of asbestos safety and worker health.