Although rare, mesothelioma is the most common form of cancer associated with asbestos exposure.

Tissue burden alone does not fully explain why asbestosis should be the criterion for linking a lung cancer to asbestos exposure. Asbestosis establishes the link between a lung cancer and asbestos exposure even when the patient also was a tobacco smoker. 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. In addition to lung cancer and mesothelioma, some studies have suggested an association between asbestos exposure and gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers.

Diseases from asbestos exposure take a long time to develop. Most cases of lung cancer or asbestosis in asbestos workers occur 15 or more years after initial exposure. Exposure to asbestos can increase the likelihood of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and non-malignant lung conditions such as asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer which may affect the lining of the lungs and the abdominal cavity. Most mesotheliomas are caused by exposure to asbestos. Significant exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma and non-malignant lung and pleural disorders.