What are the health risks associated with asbestos exposure?

Asbestos exposure is well-documented as a serious health hazard, leading to several severe respiratory diseases. The correct choice highlights the most critical health risks: lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that can occur due to inhaling asbestos fibers that settle in the lung tissue, leading to malignant cell growth. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer specifically associated with asbestos exposure and forms in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and other organs. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, resulting in lung tissue scarring and significant respiratory difficulties.

These conditions notably have a long latency period, meaning symptoms can take decades to appear after exposure. This underscores the importance of understanding the severe implications of asbestos exposure and highlights the reason why it remains heavily regulated.

The other choices mention health effects that do not reflect the full scope of asbestos-related diseases. While skin irritation or rashes, respiratory issues, infections, and shortness of breath may occur, they do not encompass the more severe and life-threatening ailments directly linked to asbestos exposure. Hence, they do not provide an accurate depiction of the health risks associated with asbestos.