Name a common health issue linked to long-term asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma is a prevalent health issue associated with long-term exposure to asbestos. It is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that specifically affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma). This particular cancer can develop many years after exposure to asbestos, often taking decades to manifest, which highlights the serious long-term risks linked to asbestos exposure.

The connection between mesothelioma and asbestos is well-documented; substantial research has established that inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to this type of cancer due to the material's ability to cause inflammation and scarring in lung tissues over time. Mesothelioma is distinctive and is usually diagnosed quite late in its progression, making it a significant concern for those who have worked with or been exposed to asbestos.

Other options, while associated with respiratory issues, do not specifically have the same strong link to asbestos exposure as mesothelioma does.