Mesothelioma and Asbestosis Two lung diseases are linked to exposure to asbestos fibers: mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a cancerous illness, is caused by asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is a non-cancerous lung illness that causes scarring. Both diseases share the same symptoms, including shortness of breathe. Doctors diagnose mesothelioma by testing,
