Asbestos exposure and lung cancer


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Asbestos exposure and lung cancer


Asbestos is a substance that was used in building materials. The substance can enter the body by being inhaled or swallowed. The substance attaches to the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. Contact with asbestos over time has been linked with cancer.

Most contact with asbestos is work-related. Some older homes may still have asbestos insulation. Government environmental offices have information on safety for asbestos contact and removal.

Credits


Author Amy Fackler, MA
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Peter Rabinowitz, MD, MPH

- Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Last Updated December 1, 2005

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Last updated: December 01, 2005
Author: Amy Fackler, MA
Reviewed By: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Peter Rabinowitz, MD, MPH - Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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