Factors in Diagnosing Asbestos Disease:

• History of asbestos exposure: direct, bystander, household, schools, offices
• Symptoms appearing 15 plus years after first exposure (latency).
• Shortness of breath on exertion or at rest.
• History of decreased exercise capability.
• Dry cough.
• Stethoscope examination showing bilateral crackles or rales in both lungs.
• Chest film evidence of asbestos scarring
• Progression of scarring on films over time.
• Pulmonary function tests showing a restrictive defect and/or an obstructive defect in non-smoker.