Mesothelioma and Asbestosis Two lung diseases are linked to exposure to asbestos fibers: mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer and asbestosis is a noncancerous condition that causes scarring and stiffness in the lungs. Both diseases have similar symptoms, including breathlessness. Doctors diagnose mesothelioma by testing, such as https://vimeo.com/704937055