Which of the following is a known health effect associated with asbestos exposure?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is specifically linked to asbestos exposure. This aggressive cancer primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura), but it can also appear in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and, more rarely, the heart. The connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is well-established, with exposure to asbestos fibers significantly increasing the risk of developing this disease.

The latency period for mesothelioma can be several decades, meaning symptoms may not appear until many years after the initial exposure. This long delay often makes diagnosis challenging, as individuals may not be aware of their asbestos exposure history.

While other conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease can have various risk factors and associations, they are not specifically caused by asbestos exposure. In contrast, mesothelioma stands out as a direct consequence of inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers, thereby highlighting the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure.