The Link Between Exposure To Asbestos and Diseases Medical research has linked exposure to asbestos to several non-cancerous and cancerous diseases. These include lung cancers, pleural diseases and asbestosis. Exposure happens when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed and release fibers into the air. The fibers can be taken in and swallowed. http://www.stes.tyc.edu.tw/xoops/modules/profile/userinfo.php?uid=1924458