How can asbestos fibers enter the lung?

Asbestos fibers primarily enter the lungs through inhalation, particularly during activities that disturb asbestos-containing materials. When such materials are damaged or disturbed—whether through construction, renovation, or demolition—tiny asbestos particles can become airborne. If individuals are present in the vicinity, they can breathe in these fibers, leading to potential health risks such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Inhalation is the most common and significant route of exposure, especially since asbestos fibers are microscopic and can remain suspended in the air for extended periods. This makes proximity to asbestos disturbances particularly dangerous. The other options involve routes that are either less likely or not recognized as significant pathways for asbestos exposure.

Skin contact does not result in the inhalation of asbestos fibers, and while ingestion of contaminated food is a concern for various contaminants, it is not a recognized pathway for asbestos entry into the lungs specifically. Similarly, while exposure to asbestos in water might occur, the primary concern remains inhalation from airborne fibers, which is the critical factor in lung disease related to asbestos exposure.