What type of cancer is specifically associated with asbestos exposure?

Mesothelioma is specifically associated with asbestos exposure due to the unique characteristics of this disease. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers many of the internal organs, most commonly the lungs (pleural mesothelioma). The primary cause of mesothelioma is prolonged and heavy exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that have been widely used in various industries for their heat resistance and insulation properties.

The lag time between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma can often be decades, with many cases appearing 20 to 50 years after initial exposure. While lung cancer is also associated with asbestos exposure, mesothelioma is distinctly linked and has a specific relationship to the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Other types of cancer, such as skin and throat cancer, do not have the same well-established correlation with asbestos exposure as mesothelioma does, making mesothelioma the answer that directly connects to the risk associated with asbestos.