Asbestosis and dust disease are lung disorders caused by the frequent inhalation of dangerous outside factors. Asbestosis is caused by an accumulation of asbestos fibers in the lungs. Before the government's regulation of asbestos in the 1970's, it was valued in the construction industry for its resistance to fire. Dust disease includes both asbestosis and the more common silicosis, which is caused by a buildup of silica or silicate particles in the lungs. Particles of silica dust can be created by any destruction of rock particles such as sand blasting or mining. Both diseases can cause scarring of the lungs and even lung cancer.
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