Asbestos lung cancer is caused by an individuals longterm exposure to asbestos.  Asbestos cancer or Mesothelioma is directly linked to asbestos and in no way is connected to smoking. Early symptoms of asbestos lung cancer are usually unnoticable. As the asbestos cancer progresses symptoms become more noticable. Symptoms include a persistent cough, pain when coughing, hoarseness, and noticable lumps below the skin, near the chest area.

Diagnosis of asbestos lung cancer can be determined by different methods, imaging tests and biopsies are two commonly used methods.

Imaging Tests- Many imaging tests are availabe and provide a painless way of checking for asbestos cancer. MRI's and CT Scans are two commonly used imaging tests.

Biopsies- Sample tissues may be extracted to detect asbestos lung cancer. The tissue sample extracted by a pathologist is called a biopsy. There are several different biopsies that can be performed to determine or diagnose Mesothelioma. Below are a two examples of these procedures.

1. Needle Aspiration-  This is when a needle is inserted into the tumor, to collect a sample of the tumor's tissue.

2. Bronchoscopy- This is where a doctor checks the air passages and collects samples with a small thin tube. The tube can either be inserted via the nose or mouth.

Asbestos lung cancer is not to be taken lightly. Life expectancy is on the rise dramatically, especially with early detection. If you or someone fears they have been exposed to asbestos and may have signs of asbestos cancer, make an appointment to see a doctor right away.