What should I do if I have been exposed to asbestos? Does smoking make a difference? Should I consult my doctor?

Inform your doctor. Even if you don’t feel sick, tell your doctor that you might have been exposed to asbestos and that you are smoking (if you smoke). Most people don’t show any signs or symptoms of asbestos-related disease for 10 to 20 years or more after exposure. Only a doctor can tell if you have any health problems due to asbestos exposure. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who treats diseases caused by asbestos.

Show this fact sheet to your doctor. Please take this fact sheet to your doctor because the information in it might be helpful in evaluating your health risk.

Quit smoking. If you are a smoker, quit smoking. Smoking combined with asbestos exposure greatly increases the risk of getting lung cancer.

Get regular influenza (flu) and pneumonia shots. Regular inoculations help reduce the chance of lung infections.