Mesothelioma and Asbestosis Two lung diseases are connected to asbestos fiber exposure mesothelioma and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer, while asbestosis is a noncancerous condition that causes stiffness and scarring in the lungs. Both diseases have similar symptoms, including a shortness of breathe. Doctors diagnose mesothelioma by testing, https://vimeo.com/704980527