Which disease is non-cancerous and caused by asbestos exposure?

• A. Lung cancer
• B. Pleural effusion
• C. Asbestosis
• D. Bronchitis

Answer: (C)

Asbestos exposure can lead to several lung problems, with some being malignant and others not. The non-cancerous disease most specifically linked to inhaled asbestos fibers is asbestosis, a chronic interstitial lung fibrosis. The fibers irritate lung tissue and trigger inflammation that over time causes scarring, making the lungs stiff and reducing their ability to exchange oxygen. This manifests as progressive shortness of breath and a dry cough, often after long-term, heavy exposure with a long latent period.

Lung cancer and mesothelioma are malignant conditions also associated with asbestos, which is why asbestos exposure is a risk factor for cancer as well. Pleural effusion, the buildup of fluid around the lungs, can occur with asbestos exposure but is not the defining non-cancerous disease caused by it. Bronchitis, meanwhile, is an airway inflammation from various causes and is not specifically tied to asbestos exposure.