A rare and extremely aggressive cancer, mesothelioma attacks the internal linings of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Scientific research has yet to prove another cause of mesothelioma aside from exposure to asbestos (a highly toxic and naturally occurring mineral). Thus, smoking cigarettes does not cause mesothelioma cancer. However, smoking does complicate an individual's risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

For those who have been exposed to asbestos, whether presently or in the distant past, smoking seriously complicates the chances of contracting an asbestos-related illness. Though smoking does not cause mesothelioma, it does increase contraction of asbestos-related lung cancer by 50 to 84 times. Thus, smoking and exposure to asbestos form a synergistic effect, greatly increasing one's likelihood of developing lung cancer. In the case of asbestosis, a serious and progressive lung disease, smoking makes the condition much worse, which can lead to the development of lung cancer.

Unlike lung cancer, the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma is not clinically increased among smokers. However, smoking cigarettes severely weakens and damages the lungs and greatly decreases an individual's natural ability to remove asbestos fibers - and it is these fibers that eventually result in mesothelioma cancer. In addition, the smoke from cigarettes irritates air passages and causes elevated production of mucus. These side effects block the passage of air, which further inhibits the removal of asbestos fibers.

If you are a smoker and have ever been exposed to asbestos, you are advised to see a doctor as soon as possible to be assessed for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases; even if you presently show no signs of symptoms. For smokers who have already contracted mesothelioma, it is very important to stop smoking immediately, as smoking makes the condition worse.

Sources:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/mesothelioma
http://www.umm.edu/thoracic/mesothelioma.htm
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/asbestos/site-kit/docs/CigarettesAsbestos2.pdf
Dodson, R. and Hammar, S. Asbestos: Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, and Health Effects. Taylor & Francis: Boca Raton. 2006.
Galateau-Salle, Francoise. Pathology of Malignant Mesothelioma. Springer-Verlag London Limited: London. 2006.

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