What are the health effects of asbestos exposure?

Exposure to asbestos does not necessarily mean that a person will become ill as a result of the exposure.

Breathing in asbestos fibers that can be released from asbestos-contaminated vermiculite may increase a person's likelihood of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma (a cancer of the outer lining of the lungs and/or abdominal cavity), lung abnormalities and breathing disorders.

Repeated and prolonged exposure to high levels of asbestos increases the chances of developing these diseases.