Final answer:
Prolonged asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of respiratory and abdominal organs. The presence of asbestos fibers in the air becomes particularly risky during demolition or remodeling of older buildings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beyond lung cancer and asbestosis, another major health effect often associated with this exposure is mesothelioma, which is a rare form of cancer found in the lining of the lung, chest, abdomen, and heart. This condition points to how dangerous asbestos exposure can be, especially considering the substance's use in construction and other industries. Over time, asbestos fibers can be released into the air, particularly when materials containing asbestos are disturbed. This can happen during demolition, remodeling, or other activities that can damage materials containing asbestos and cause fibers to become airborne. It is also noteworthy that the combination of smoking tobacco and exposure to asbestos greatly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Thus, it's vital to minimize exposure to asbestos fibers in both occupational and residential settings to prevent these serious diseases.