Which of the following is considered a risk factor associated with asbestos?

The choice that identifies fiber size, personal susceptibility, and smoking as risk factors associated with asbestos is accurate because these elements significantly influence the likelihood of developing asbestos-related diseases.

Fiber size is critical as smaller fibers, particularly those measuring less than 5 micrometers, are able to penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to higher risks of conditions such as asbestosis and lung cancer. Personal susceptibility varies among individuals; factors like genetic predisposition and pre-existing health conditions can affect how the body reacts to asbestos exposure. Additionally, smoking alongside asbestos exposure dramatically increases the risk of lung cancer, as the two factors have a synergistic effect that exacerbates health risks.

In contrast, focusing solely on exposure duration, specific work environments, or the age of the worker overlooks the complexity of how multiple factors interplay to increase risk. While these aspects can certainly contribute to exposure scenarios, they do not encompass the broader range of risk factors associated with asbestos, making them insufficient on their own to identify the comprehensive risk profile.