If you've been exposed to asbestos

Health monitoring

Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure should inform his doctor about his concerns. The doctor should then:

• Take a careful history, asking about shortness of breath and occupational history.

• Perform a thorough physical examination, assessing the lungs and looking for signs of clubbing.

• Arrange for an assessment of lung function.

• Order a chest x-ray to determine if there is any evidence of asbestos-related disease.

If the chest x-ray shows abnormalities, various diagnostic procedures may follow to establish a diagnosis. These may include further imaging studies, proceeding to invasive procedures if necessary (if malignant mesothelioma is suspected).

If the chest x-ray is clear, it should repeated annually, to screen for any changes that may develop.

At-risk individuals should seek prompt medical attention if there is any change in their breathing, or if they develop chest pain.