Which exposure history is most strongly associated with mesothelioma?

• A. Smoking
• B. Radon exposure
• C. Air pollution
• D. Asbestos exposure

Answer: (D)

Asbestos exposure is the factor most strongly linked to mesothelioma. Mesothelioma arises from malignant transformation of mesothelial cells lining the pleura or peritoneum, and inhaled asbestos fibers cause chronic inflammation and DNA damage that can lead to this cancer many decades after exposure. Smoking does not cause mesothelioma and does not significantly increase its risk, though it greatly adds to the risk of other lung cancers and, when combined with asbestos, dramatically increases bronchogenic carcinoma risk. Radon and general air pollution are more closely associated with lung cancer than with mesothelioma. So, the history most strongly associated with mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.