People who have exposed themselves to asbestos for long periods of time in their work environment are subject to higher risks. Some of the most common industries that used asbestos are the construction industry, the metallurgical industry, and the shipbuilding industry. This substance’s particles are invisible, which makes it difficult for people to know if and when they inhaled asbestos. Moreover, the condition usually occurs later in life, after approximately 20 years since the exposure began.

Prolonged inhalation of asbestos particles damages the lung’s pleura causing scarring, calcification, and thickening. These effects are unfortunately irreversible and they cause a series of difficulties associated with lung function impairment. Most common symptoms include chest pain and shortness of breath.