It seems that asbestos exposure can produce a particularly serious form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. It may take anywhere up to 50 years from the date of first exposure for this cancer to develop, although many will develop in a shorter period of time.
In the early 1980s, this became a highly publicized and very emotive topic in many Western countries, as the subject assumed national importance.
Since asbestos was in such wide daily use on a national basis, it means that many may have been exposed to it. Although import of certain kinds of asbestos has been banned, the disease will continue to take its toll for decades. A “Mesothelioma Register” has been set up to delve into the cause of this sinister disease more fully. A lot more will be heard about it in the future, including massive claims for compensation. All-time records are likely to be established.
Farmer’s lung. This is produced when the dust from moldy hay and vegetables is inhaled into the lungs.
Breathlessness and cough develop a few hours after working in moldy hay, and subside when exposure ceases. Some develop asthmatic symptoms and a fever.
Reducing the moisture content of the hay in which the person is working assists. Cortisone like therapy assists some patients. But a change in occupation is the best remedy.