New York State Asbestos Investigator Practice Exam

Which of the following diseases is NOT commonly associated with asbestos exposure?

1. Cancer of the lung

2. Cancer of the larynx

3. Cancer of the skin

4. Cancer of the stomach

The correct answer is: Cancer of the skin

Asbestos exposure is strongly linked to several types of cancers, particularly those involving the respiratory system and related structures. Lung cancer and cancers of the larynx are well-documented consequences of asbestos exposure, as inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to serious damage and mutations within the tissues of the lungs and throat. In contrast, cancer of the skin is not commonly associated with asbestos exposure. While there are numerous risk factors for skin cancer, such as UV radiation, exposure to certain chemicals, and genetic predisposition, asbestos does not fall into the category of contributing factors for skin malignancies. The fibers from asbestos primarily affect the lungs and pleural tissues, resulting in diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, but do not have a recognized link to skin cancer. Similarly, while there is some discussion about the potential association between asbestos and other digestive system cancers, such as stomach cancer, the evidence is not as strong or consistent as it is for lung and laryngeal cancers. Thus, recognizing that skin cancer is not a common outcome of asbestos exposure underscores the distinct pathways and effects that asbestos can have within the body.