The most common forms of asbestos disease are pleural plaques, asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestosis is a chronic, prolonged lung disease that is caused by continuous inhalation of asbestos particles. However, asbestosis is not cancerous. The second form, mesothelioma is a cancer that attacks mesothelium and is most commonly found in the lung. Mesothelioma is rare or nonexistent in non-asbestos exposed populations but is becoming more common among asbestos-exposed individuals.

Daniel H Sterman MD and Steven M Albelda MD.
University of Pennsylvania Med Ctr, Philadelphia, USA.
Read here: 2006 January Vol4 Issue1

Mesothelial cells are a single layer of specialised pavement-like cells that line the body’s internal cavities and most organs. The primary function of this cell layer, termed the mesothelium, is to provide a slippery, non-adhesive and protective surface. However, mesothelial cells play other pivotal roles involving transport of fluid and cells across the surface of the body wall and organs, presentation of foreign molecules (such as bacteria and virus proteins) to immune cells, inflammation and tissue repair, formation and breakdown of fibrin …

A comprehensive report curated by Laurie Kazan-Allen on the asbestos-related diseases in India. An economical and political evaluation of the asbestos industry and its implications in society and healthcare stream. Prevention is key, especially in mesothelioma, where the carcinogen, asbestos, is well known and exposure to it can be controlled. Acting now will prevent the inevitable increase of deaths in a near future. India is the third largest user of asbestos after China and Russia (countries where it’s still produced too).