Short Communication
Year: 2017 | Month: October-December | Volume: 2 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 19-29
Asbestos, Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer: A Comment
Sergei V. Jargin
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow Clementovski per 6-82; 115184 Moscow, Russian Federation
ABSTRACT
This short communication continues and summarizes previously published articles. Asbestos-related risks have been estimated on the basis of extrapolations from the past, when high-dose exposures were more frequent. The linear no-threshold dose-response pattern has been assumed for low exposure levels although its applicability has never been proven. Inhalation and discharge of fibers are normally in a dynamic equilibrium. Accordingly, there may be a safe exposure level (threshold). The screening bias probably contributed to the enhanced registered incidence of asbestos-related diseases in exposed populations. In particular, mesothelioma was sought in exposed populations and correspondingly more often found. Malignant mesothelioma is indistinctly demarcated as an entity; in asbestos-exposed populations, questionable or borderline cases can be diagnosed as mesothelioma. Furthermore, carcinogenicity of chrysotile vs. amphibole asbestos is discussed. Research on this topic has been influenced by economic interests. Chrysotile clearance from the lung may partly result from the fiber splitting and movement to the pleura. A possible way to objective information may be large-scale chronic bioassays. In conclusion, the asbestos-related policies should be revaluated on the basis of independent research.
Key words: amphibole, asbestos, chrysotile, mesothelioma, lung cancer