History

• Asbestos has been used commercially since the late 19th century. Although the risks associated with exposure were first studied in the 1930s and 1940s, it wasn't until the 1970s that usage was limited to prevent health problems.
  
  

Time Frame

• Asbestos exposure may not cause mesothelioma for years or even decades after exposure.
  
  

Types of People Exposed

• People are most commonly exposed to asbestos through their jobs, with the highest risks in the shipbuilding, construction, heating, and mining/milling industries. In the home, exposure is most common during renovations in older homes built using products containing asbestos. Friends and family members of people exposed can also be exposed, as asbestos can stick to clothing and hair.
  
  

Length of Exposure

• Risk for developing mesothelioma increases the longer you are exposed to asbestos. However, it can also develop after being exposed just once and for a very short time.
  
  

Smoking

• Smoking does not increase the risk of developing mesothelioma after asbestos exposure.