Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Asbestos lung cancer develops in lung tissue and is caused by asbestos exposure. It occurs in two main types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Combination therapies improve survival for many patients.
Learn About Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer in Our Free Guide
Asbestos and Lung Cancer
Asbestos can cause lung cancer. One study attributed as much as 18% of lung cancer cases to occupational asbestos exposure. Cancer may develop after a person inhales asbestos and its fibers become lodged in the lung tissue. Symptoms, prognosis and treatment options are the same as for any non-asbestos-related lung cancer.
If you suspect you may have been exposed to asbestos, you can talk to a doctor. A healthcare professional can help you watch for signs of asbestos lung cancer. Identifying an asbestos disease early may help improve prognosis.
Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Quick Facts
- Definition: Asbestos lung cancer is any lung cancer associated with asbestos exposure.
- Cause: Inhaled asbestos fibers may become stuck in the lung tissue, which can cause asbestos lung cancer to develop.
- Number of cases: Approximately 2,000 – 3,200 people die from asbestos lung cancer each year in the United States.
- Symptoms: Common asbestos lung cancer symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing.
- Life expectancy: Lung cancer patients have a median survival of 9 months, although many live for years after diagnosis.
- Latency: One study of asbestos workers found about 10.5 years passed between asbestos exposure and diagnosis of lung cancer.
Types of Asbestos Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure may lead to different types of lung cancer. The two main types differ in cancer cell size. They are called small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Between 80% and 85% of all lung cancers are NSCLC.
Each type has different recommended therapies. This means the type of lung cancer affects treatment plans and prognoses. Patients who receive some form of treatment generally live longer than those who do not.
Patients may hear lung cancer referred to as asbestos lung cancer or one of the names referencing cell size. “Asbestos lung cancer” describes the cause of the cancer. “SCLC” and “NSCLC” both describe the cancer cell types in the tumor.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
SCLC is a type of lung cancer composed of smaller cells than NSCLC. It usually starts in the air passages in the lungs (bronchi) and tends to grow and spread faster than NSCLC. Because it grows quickly, SCLC often responds well to chemotherapy.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
NSCLC is a type of lung cancer composed of larger cells than SCLC. Several NSCLC subtypes exist. Subtypes include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma. These subtypes start in different lung cells. The grouping under “NSCLC” reflects similar cell size, prognoses and treatments.
How Does Asbestos Cause Lung Cancer?
Over time, asbestos may cause lung cancer to develop in three steps. First, a person inhales or ingests asbestos fibers. Second, fibers become lodged in the lung tissue. Finally, fibers may cause inflammation and damage to the tissue, potentially leading to asbestos lung cancer.
Although questions remain about this process, it is well established that asbestos can cause lung cancer.
Asbestos may also cause other cancers like mesothelioma. This cancer can occur when asbestos fibers become lodged in the lining around the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum).
Latency Period
Asbestos lung cancer may develop more than 10 years after exposure. The time between asbestos exposure and diagnosis is called the latency period. Asbestos diseases, like lung cancer and mesothelioma, often have long latency periods.
A doctor can provide periodic checks to watch for signs of asbestos disease. Early diagnosis may allow for better lung cancer treatment options and improve outcomes.
How Might You Have Been Exposed to Asbestos?
Asbestos exposure may occur in many ways. The mineral was popular in products and manufacturing processes for much of the 20th century. It can still be found in homes, schools and commercial buildings.
People often do not know when or where they experienced asbestos exposure. Not knowing the source of exposure does not affect treatment options.
Asbestos Exposure at Work
Many people have faced exposure while working at asbestos jobsites. Doctors have diagnosed asbestos diseases in some people who experienced only small exposures. But, the frequent, heavy exposure associated with asbestos jobs can increase the likelihood of asbestos diseases.
Many industries used asbestos until the 1980s, when the mineral’s dangers became common knowledge. Occupations historically linked to asbestos exposure include auto mechanics, insulators and oil refinery workers.
Many workers still face potential asbestos exposure today. For example, construction workers may come into contact with asbestos materials in old buildings. Many states have regulations designed to protect workers with jobs where asbestos may be present.
Doctors may attribute lung cancer to asbestos exposure if patients have specific characteristics or conditions, including:
- Asbestos fibers in the lungs
- Asbestosis
- Thickened tissue in the lung lining (pleural plaques)
A doctor does not need to determine if asbestos caused a person’s lung cancer to treat it. Determining the cause of cancer is relevant if a person seeks compensation from an asbestos company to help pay for treatment and other expenses.
Risk Factors for Asbestos Lung Cancer
Risk factors for asbestos lung cancer include smoking and exposure to certain minerals. Risk factors are different from causes. The cause of asbestos lung cancer is asbestos exposure. Risk factors may increase the chance of developing cancer after encountering asbestos.
According to the National Cancer Institute, the best way to prevent lung cancer is to not smoke tobacco. Smokers are approximately 20 times more likely than nonsmokers to develop lung cancer.
Exposures to the following substances may increase a person’s risk of developing lung cancer:
- Air pollution
- Diesel exhaust
- Heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium and nickel
- Radiation
- Silica
- Tar and soot
- Tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke
Researchers have also identified elements that might increase a person’s risk of lung cancer. Potential risk factors include high meat consumption, genetics and HIV infection. Habit changes, exposure avoidance and certain medicines may reduce lung cancer risks. People can talk to their doctors about managing risk factors.
Both asbestos exposure and smoking can cause lung cancer. People who smoke and have experienced asbestos exposure may have an increased risk of lung cancer. One study looked at three groups of people:
- Smokers
- Smokers with a history of asbestos exposure
- Non-smokers with a history of asbestos exposure
The smokers with past exposure had 4 times the lung cancer risk of the other groups.
Common Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Symptoms of asbestos lung cancer may include chest pain, shortness of breath and a persistent cough. It is also possible to not have any symptoms. Patients exposed to asbestos can ask their doctor to provide periodic screenings for asymptomatic asbestos cancer.
The symptoms of asbestos lung cancer are the same as other lung cancers and include:
- Bloody phlegm
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Hoarseness
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Trouble swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Wheezing
The above are not necessarily signs of asbestos lung cancer. Other conditions can cause fatigue, coughing or any other listed symptom. A doctor’s diagnosis is the only way to determine if you have lung cancer.
Diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Doctors can give a conclusive diagnosis of asbestos lung cancer only after performing a biopsy. A biopsy collects tissues or fluids that can be tested for cancer. Healthcare providers may perform other tests leading up to a biopsy, including X-rays and CT scans. These additional tests can screen for abnormalities in the lungs.
Asbestos Lung Cancer Biopsy
A biopsy is a medical procedure that helps diagnose asbestos lung cancer. During the procedure, doctors collect a tissue or fluid sample. This sample is then sent to a lab, where a pathologist tests it for cancer cells.
Doctors may use different biopsy procedures to get a sample. For example, doctors may take a fluid sample using a needle. Patients may hear this procedure called thoracentesis (pleurocentesis). Thoracentesis may also be used to remove excess fluid build-up in the lungs.
Asbestos Lung Cancer Screening Tests
Doctors may perform other tests to reach a final asbestos lung cancer diagnosis, including:
- Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray takes a picture of the upper body. It can identify abnormalities and help rule out certain conditions.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan is a series of X-rays that creates a three-dimensional image of the body. It provides a higher level of detail than an isolated X-ray image. CT scans may be able to identify tumor cells that do not appear on a regular X-ray.
- Lab testing: A doctor may send tissue, blood or urine samples to a lab for analysis.
- Physical examination: Physical exams can test for lumps, sounds and other potential signs of cancer. A doctor may also ask about family history, smoking history and other topics to help determine the next steps toward a diagnosis.
Along with a biopsy, these tests can help doctors arrive at a correct diagnosis. They can use the data to decide on the best course of treatment for patients.
Did You Know?
Some treatments for mesothelioma are not covered by insurance.
Treatment for mesothelioma can become a financial burden.
Asbestos Lung Cancer Treatment
Doctors may treat asbestos lung cancer with a combination of therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Combining different treatments to help improve survival is called multimodal therapy. Doctors can determine the best course of treatment based on an individual’s unique diagnosis.
Eligible patients may undergo surgery to remove lung cancer tissue. Doctors may consider surgery for early-stage lung cancer patients.
Doctors may apply chemotherapy in a number of ways to kill fast-growing lung cancer cells. Stage and type of lung cancer inform which chemotherapies may benefit patients.
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system attack cancer cells. Several checkpoint inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy, are established lung cancer treatments.
Radiation therapy is often combined with chemotherapy to target areas with lung cancer tumors. Doctors may recommend it for any lung cancer stage.
Individual treatment plans depend on patient health, cancer stage, type of lung cancer and other factors. An asbestos lung disease specialist can determine the optimal treatment plan for your unique situation.
Prognosis and Survival for Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Asbestos lung cancer patients have a median survival of 9 months, although many live for years after diagnosis. Factors affecting prognosis include cancer stage at diagnosis, type of cancer (SCLC or NSCLC) and patient health. Advances in screening and treatment continue to improve outcomes for many patients.
One way to measure survival is by the percentage of lung cancer patients alive a specified time after their diagnoses. This statistic is called survival rate.
| Cancer extent at diagnosis | Non-small cell lung cancer | Small cell lung cancer |
|---|---|---|
| Localized | 65% | 30% |
| Regional | 37% | 18% |
| Distant | 9% | 3% |
| Source: American Cancer Society | ||
Note: Asbestos lung cancer is clinically indistinguishable from other lung cancers. Survival rates shown are for all forms of lung cancer, including those unrelated to asbestos.
An individual’s prognosis describes how a doctor expects their cancer to progress based on a number of factors. It isn’t rare for patients to outlive their projected life expectancy. As advancements in screening and treatments continue, survival may further improve for people with asbestos-related diseases.
Decreasing Lung Cancer Risks
People can take steps to decrease the risk of asbestos lung cancer. Doctors, other experts and various tools can assist in managing cancer risk factors. For example, quitting smoking lowers the risk of lung cancer. Quitting aids ranging from support groups to medical therapies are available.
Other than quitting smoking, people may consider the following actions:
- Avoid secondhand smoke: Secondhand tobacco smoke is a risk factor for lung cancer. Many states have enacted smoke-free indoor air laws to help prevent secondhand smoke inhalation. If you live in a state without these laws, you can advocate for your legislature to adopt a comprehensive ban.
- Avoid workplace carcinogens: People who work around certain cancer-causing agents should limit exposures as much as possible. Radioactive materials, inhaled chemicals and diesel exhaust can all increase the risk of lung cancer.
- Test home for asbestos: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has guidance for what to do if you suspect asbestos in the home. It is important not to disturb or try to identify these materials. Accredited professionals should handle any asbestos testing and removal.
Some evidence also suggests eating a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables may help protect against lung cancer. Doctors can help you find a dietitian, access quitting smoking aids and answer any risk management questions.
Questions About Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer? Ask experienced mesothelioma advocate Jennifer Lucarelli Ask a Question
Common Questions About Asbestos and Lung Cancer
What’s the difference between mesothelioma and asbestos lung cancer?
How are asbestosis and lung cancer related?
Do all asbestos-exposed individuals get lung cancer or mesothelioma?
How can I pay for the best asbestos lung cancer treatment?
Sources
American Cancer Society. Can Lung Cancer Be Prevented? October 2019.
American Cancer Society. Lung Cancer Risk Factors. Updated January 2023.
American Cancer Society. Lung Cancer Survival Rates. Updated March 2023.
American Cancer Society. What Is Lung Cancer? Updated January 2023.
Asbestos (Chrysotile, Amosite, Crocidolite, Tremolite, Actinolite and Anthophyllite). International Agency for Research on Cancer. 2012.
De Matteis S, Consonni D, et al. Impact of occupational carcinogens on lung cancer risk in a general population. International Journal of Epidemiology. June 2012;41(3):711-721. doi: 10.1093/ije/dys042
Hu S, Zhang W, et al. Prognosis and Survival Analysis of 922,317 Lung Cancer Patients from the US Based on the Most Recent Data from the SEER Database (April 15, 2021). International Journal of General Medicine. 2021;14:9567-9588. doi: 10.2147/IJGM.S338250
Jones GS, Baldwin DR. Recent advances in the management of lung cancer. Clinical Medicine Journal. April 2018;18(Suppl 2):s41-s46. doi: 10.7861/clinmedicine.18-2-s41
Malhotra J, Malvezzi M, et al. Risk factors for lung cancer worldwide. European Respiratory Journal. September 2016;48(3):889-902. doi: 10.1183/13993003.00359-2016
National Cancer Institute. Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk. Updated November 2021.
National Cancer Institute. Lung Cancer Prevention (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Updated October 2023.
National Cancer Institute. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Updated October 2023.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. February 2020.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) Small Cell Lung Cancer. January 2018.
O’Reilly KMA, McLaughlin AM, et al. Asbestos-Related Lung Disease. American Family Physician. March 2007;75(5):683-688.
Suraya A, Nowak D, et al. Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study in Indonesia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. January 2020;17(2):591. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17020591
Tossavainen A. Asbestos, asbestosis, and cancer: the Helsinki criteria for diagnosis and attribution. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health. August 1997;23(4):311-316. doi: 10.5271/sjweh.226
Uguen M, Dewitte J-D, et al. Asbestos-related lung cancers: A retrospective clinical and pathological study. Molecular and Clinical Oncology. July 2017;7(1):135-139. doi: 10.3892/mco.2017.1277
Free Mesothelioma Treatment Guide
Katy Moncivais, Ph.D., has more than 15 years of experience as a medical communicator. As the Medical Editor at Mesothelioma.com, she ensures our pages and posts present accurate, helpful information.
Annette Charlevois is a Patient Support Coordinator for Mesothelioma.com. For more than 20 years, she has helped thousands of mesothelioma patients and their families get the assistance they need.
