Mesothelioma lung cancer is the leading cause of death in asbestos-related illnesses.

Mesothelioma lung cancer is the leading cause of death in asbestos-related illnesses. Lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure typically occurs at a younger age than other lung cancers and is most likely found in the lower lobes. This form of cancer is often called asbestos lung cancer, but it is actually cancer of the lining of the lung. Lung cancer as it is traditionally understood is cancer that causes tumours in the lung.

Asbestos related lung cancer occurs in several forms including bronchial carcinoma and adeno carcinoma. Not every asbestos-related lung cancer is a mesothelioma, which are tumours specifically of the lining surrounding the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Mesothelioma is a relatively rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It attacks the membranes that surround the lungs, heart or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos may increase the risk of asbestosis, other non-malignant lung and pleural disorders, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other cancers. Although rare, mesothelioma is the most common form of cancer associated with asbestos exposure. There is evidence that quitting smoking will reduce the risk of lung cancer among asbestos-exposed workers.