New Study Links Combined Exposure to Ultrafine Particles and Asbestos to Higher Lung Cancer Risk
A new study from French researchers has identified a significant link between lung cancer and combined exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs) and asbestos, compared to asbestos exposure alone. While UFPs by themselves did not increase cancer rates, the study found that workers exposed to both carcinogens had a substantially higher likelihood of developing lung cancer.
These findings underscore the dangers faced by workers in industrial and manufacturing settings, where UFPs and asbestos frequently exist together.
What Are Ultrafine Particles (UFPs)?
Ultrafine particles are microscopic airborne particles less than 100 nanometers in diameter. They are generated unintentionally through both natural processes and human activity. In workplaces—especially those involving combustion engines, heavy equipment, or manufacturing—UFP concentrations are significantly higher than in the general environment.
Common workplace sources of UFPs include:
- Combustion engines
- Industrial machinery
- Farm equipment
- Manufacturing and processing facilities
Due to their size, UFPs can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, making them especially dangerous when combined with other toxins.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring, heat-resistant, fibrous minerals once widely used in construction and industrial products for their insulating properties. Prior to regulation, asbestos was common in:
- Siding
- Roofing materials (especially flat roofs)
- Window caulking and glazing
- Popcorn and textured ceilings
- Fireproofing and insulation
Although the U.S. restricted asbestos use in 1989, millions of workers were exposed for decades, and many older buildings still contain asbestos today.
Asbestos exposure remains the primary cause of mesothelioma, a rare and lethal cancer.
Why the Combination Matters
For many workers, exposures happened simultaneously—particularly in industrial settings where asbestos-containing materials were used and combustion machinery emitted UFPs. The study revealed that:
- Exposure to ultrafine particles alone does not increase lung cancer risk
- Exposure to asbestos alone significantly increases risk
- Combined exposure to UFPs + asbestos results in even higher lung cancer rates
Workers often faced these risks for years or even decades. In many cases, employers knew about the dangers but failed to adequately protect their workforce.
If You Suspect You Were Exposed, We Can Help
A lung cancer diagnosis is devastating and can bring emotional and financial hardship to families. Exposure to asbestos—and in some cases, asbestos combined with ultrafine particles—has been proven to cause long-term lung damage, including mesothelioma.
At Madeksho Law, we have represented workers harmed by toxic exposures for more than 50 years. Our compassionate legal team can help you understand your rights, explore medical and legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Since 1972, Madeksho Law has recovered over $400 MILLION for clients nationwide.
Call 888-910-MESO (6376) or contact us online for a free consultation.
