What is Asbestos related Lung cancer?

Shortage of breath or wheezing
Stubborn coughs
Rapid weight loss
Chest, back and shoulder pain
Coughing up blood in phlegm
Frequent infections such as recurring pneumonia or bronchitis

Inhaled microscopic asbestos fibres can become trapped within the lungs leading to damage and scarring of the lungs. Irritation and inflammation can lead to genetic change and formation of a tumour which typically could occur between 15 – 35 years.

It is important you discuss any health concerns with your GP at the earliest opportunity. Your GP will undertake a physical examination and discuss with you the basis of your concern and it is important you outline details of your earlier exposure to asbestos.

A number of diagnostic investigations can be carried out which might include,

Chest X-ray

CT Scan (computerised tomography)

This is a painless process whereby a series of x-rays are taken to produce a 3D image.

PET Scan (positron emission tomography)

This involves the use of low dose radiation which is injected into the bloodstream to produce detailed 3D images to confirm the existence, extent and spread of cancer.

Bronchoscopy

This is a procedure undertaken by a doctor or trained nurse to examine the main airways of the lungs using a fibre-optic bronchoscope which is a thin and flexible tube. Normally inserted through the mouth or nose under mild sedative and/or local anaesthetic it allows for examination and collection of biopsy specimens from the airway or lungs. In certain situations it might be necessary to conduct this examination under general anaesthetic.

Lung biopsy

This procedure involves insertion of a thin needle into the lung to recover sample cells for examination. It is normally undertaken during a CT Scan under local anaesthetic.

Treatment for asbestos related lung cancer is similar to that in other types of cancer and will be dependent upon various factors such as the type and stage of the cancer and the general health and fitness of the person affected.

Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. If the cancer is at an advanced stage and surgery is deemed not to be an option then palliative treatment might be the only option.

Surgery

This might involve removal of the entire affected lung and/or removal of the affected area. It is still possible to breathe normally following the removal of one lung.

Chemotherapy

The type of chemotherapy offered will depend upon the type of cancer being treated. Most treatments are provided as an outpatient at a hospital or clinic where anti-cancer drugs are administered by cancer nurses. Chemotherapy drugs can be injected into a vein or through a drip or be in the form of tablet or capsule and are designed to kill cancer cells and prevent them from multiplying

Radiotherapy

This treatment uses pulses of radiation to destroy abnormal or cancer cells. Radiotherapy might also be used following surgical excision of a cancerous tumour to destroy any remaining tumour cells and to slow down the spread of cancer when a cure is not possible (palliative radiotherapy).

Treatment and survival rates for asbestos related lung cancer is comparable to that of non- asbestos related lung cancer which, as with most cancers, is dependent upon several factors which include the stage of the cancer when first diagnosed, the type of lung cancer and the general health and fitness of the patient. Commonly diagnosed in people aged between 70 – 74 years early diagnosis can improve survival rates as too can the offer of surgery.