Who needs to be examined for Asbestosis or Mesothelioma?

Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos (or suspect they have been exposed) dust on the job or at home via a family contact should inform their physician of their exposure history and any symptoms. Asbestos fibers can be measured in urine、feces、mucus、or material rinsed out of the lungs. A thorough physical examination、including a chest x-ray and lung function tests、may be recommended.

It is important to note that chest x-rays cannot detect asbestos fibers in the lungs、but they can help identify any lung changes resulting from asbestos exposure. Interpretation of the chest x-ray may require the help of a specialist who is experienced in reading x-rays for asbestos-related diseases. Other tests also may be necessary.

As noted earlier、the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not become apparent for many decades after exposure. If any of the following symptoms develop、a physical examination should be scheduled without delay:

Shortness of breath;

A cough or a change in cough pattern;

Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up from the lungs;

Pain in the chest or abdomen;

Difficulty in swallowing or prolonged hoarseness; and/or

Significant weight loss.