How Can Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases Be Prevented?

You can prevent asbestos-related lung diseases by limiting your exposure to asbestos fibers. If your job requires you to work around asbestos, make sure to follow workplace rules for handling it. For example, make sure that air levels are measured and that you wear the proper respirator to avoid breathing in asbestos fibers.

If you live in a house or work in a building that has pipes or other products containing asbestos, you generally don’t need to take special precautions.

Being around products that contain asbestos isn’t a danger, as long as the asbestos is enclosed. This prevents the fibers from escaping into the air.

If you smoke, quit. Smoking greatly increases your risk for lung cancer if you have pleural plaque, pleural effusion, or asbestosis.

Talk to your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke.