What is a common consequence of prolonged asbestos exposure?

Prolonged asbestos exposure can lead to serious respiratory issues, the most common of which is a persistent cough. This occurs because asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause irritation and inflammation in the lung tissues. Over time, this irritation often manifests as a chronic cough, which can be one of the early signs of conditions such as asbestosis or asbestos-related lung cancer. It’s important to note that the cough associated with asbestos exposure may not be just a simple symptom but can indicate a more serious health issue developing in the lungs due to the harmful effects of asbestos fibers. Other options, such as frequent colds, sinus infections, and headaches, are less directly related to the long-term impacts of asbestos exposure and do not specifically signify the serious respiratory health risks that prolonged asbestos exposure presents.