Which asbestos-related disease is cancerous and affects the lining of the lungs?

• A. Asbestosis
• B. Mesothelioma
• C. Lung cancer
• D. Pleural plaques

Answer: (B)

Cancer that affects the lining around the lungs and is linked to asbestos exposure is mesothelioma. This disease arises from mesothelial cells that line the pleura, the membranes surrounding the lungs. It is malignant, setting it apart from other asbestos-related conditions. Asbestosis refers to scarring of lung tissue rather than cancer, pleural plaques are benign thickenings of the pleura, and lung cancer is a cancer of the lung tissue itself rather than the lining. Mesothelioma often has a long latency period after exposure and can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and pleural effusion as it progresses.