[Asbestos exposure and pleuropulmonary cancer]

Pleuropulmonary cancers are recognized asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma occurs almost uniquely in individuals exposed to asbestos whereas lung cancer is strongly associated with smoking. If the asbestos exposure is sufficient however, the incidence of lung cancer is higher than would be expected from the smoking effect alone. For lung cancer in asbestos workers, asbestosis is not a prerequisite for recognition as an occupation-related disease. The intensity and duration of exposure to asbestos are factors associated with higher risk of lung cancer. These factors can be estimated on the basis of the work history or, when necessary, by analyzing mineral dust from available lung tissues.