Asbestos is a natural mineral made up of microscopic bundles of fibers that may become airborne when distributed. When these fiber become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs, asbestos may cause significant health problems, most likely leading to malignant mesothelioma. Scientists have yet to determine a "safe level" of exposure to asbestos, but in general, the greater and longer the exposure, the greater the risk of contracting an asbestos related disease. Some of these health problems include:

• Mesothelioma. A cancer of the pleura, the outer lining of the lung aad chest cavity, or the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal wall. This form of cancer is peculiar because the only known cause is from asbestos exposure, usually by inhalation. It takes about 15 to 20 years before this disease is developed.

• Asbestosis. As asbestos fibers are inhaled into the lungs, they may become trapped in the lung tissue. The body tries to dissolve the fibers by producing an acid; however, due to the chemical resistance of the fiber, the acid does little to damage the fibers, but may sresult in scarring of the surrounding tissue. Eventually, this scarring may become so severe that the lungs cannot function. The time it takes for this disease to become fully developed is often 25 to 40 years.

• Lung Cancer. As stated by the Surgeon General, the effects of lung cancer are significantly increased by cigarette smoking. Inhalation of asbestos into the lungs can further exponentially increase the risk of this disease. Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract can also be caused by asbestos. The effects of lung cancer from asbestos can often go unnoticed from 15 to over 40 years.