Elevated Risk for Other Forms of Cancer

The National Cancer Institute and other highly regarded authorities in the field of cancer research have classified asbestos, a fibrous, fire-resistant mineral, as a human carcinogen. Due to its historical popularity in construction materials and commercial products, millions of Americans have been exposed to asbestos. On average, 10,000 people in the United States die each year from asbestos-related diseases. Of the 10,000 who succumb to asbestos-related illnesses, most die of mesothelioma or lung cancer. To read about asbestos-related lung cancer, please see Lung Cancer.

While certain diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis are commonly associated with asbestos exposure, other illnesses are also linked to exposure to this toxic mineral. Various scientific studies and research have connected asbestos exposure with the following conditions:

Breast Cancer - Breast cancer develops in the cells of the breast and, internationally, is the second most common type of cancer (after lung cancer). Breast cancer typically forms in the ducts and the gland that produce milk, called the lobules. Though further research is needed with regard to breast cancer and asbestos exposure, evidence has revealed a plausible connection between the two.

Colorectal Cancer - Also known as colon cancer, colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the colon begin to abnormally and rapidly divide. Though doctors did not associate asbestos exposure to colorectal cancer for years, scientists began to make the link between the two in the 1960s. Several studies have revealed a correlation and a causal relationship between asbestos exposure and the development of colorectal cancer.

Gastrointestinal Cancer - Gastrointestinal cancers are cancers that form in the gastrointestinal tract such as stomach, gallbladder, liver and anal cancer. Many experts agree that a link between asbestos exposure and gastrointestinal cancer exists and a study in Norway found that lighthouse keepers who drank water tainted with asbestos had an elevated incidence of stomach cancer. Like many asbestos-related illnesses, gastrointestinal cancer patients may not demonstrate symptoms of the disease until the cancer has spread.

Leukemia - Leukemia refers to cancer of the bone marrow or blood. Studies linking leukemia and asbestos exposure were published in the late 1970s and early 1980s. A 2005 study conducted on a patient with leukemia/lymphoma and peritoneal mesothelioma noted that the development of two uncommon diseases implied the probability of a causative factor and asbestos expose was ruled the sole possible connection between the diseases. Lymphomas - "Lymphoma" refers to a group of cancers which can be linked to the lymphatic system. Lymphomas can be organized into two major categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). Lymphomas are cancers which attack blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes. A number of scientific studies indicate there is an increased risk of developing lymphomas after asbestos exposure.

Ovarian Cancer - Ovarian cancer develops from cancerous changes in the cells of the ovary. Certain risk factors have been recognized which increase a woman's probability of developing ovarian cancer. Some of these risk factors include number of pregnancies, age, personal and family history of cancer, hormonal cycling, and environmental factors. Scientific studies have reported increased mortality from ovarian cancer among women who have been exposed to asbestos, either occupationally or via asbestos-contaminated talc.

Prostate Cancer - Prostate cancer results from a malignant change in prostate (a gland of the male reproductive system) cells. Several risk factors of prostate cancer have been identified, including age, family history, ethnicity, certain changes in the prostate, and a diet rich in meat and animal fat. A number of scientific studies have revealed evidence of a potential link between asbestos exposure and the development of prostate cancer.

There are a number of factors that play a role in one's risk of developing cancer after exposure to asbestos. The amount of asbestos a person has been exposed to is an important factor. The amount of time spent in an asbestos-contaminated environment also plays a role. Additionally, aspects of lifestyle are also a factor. A person's general health and ability to fight off disease are important considerations. A previous case of cancer also places a person at a greater risk of developing cancer in the future. It should be noted that smokers are more likely to develop cancer after being exposed to asbestos than non-smokers.

It may be difficult to diagnose cancers in those who have been exposed to asbestos, because cancers related to such an exposure may take many years or even decades to present symptoms. Those who believe they may be at risk for developing cancer, or have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials, should see a physician for a proper screening assessment. In addition, the advice of a mesothelioma lawyer can help victims of asbestos exposure pay for necessary treatments.