Which of the following is a key health effect associated with asbestos exposure?

Mesothelioma is a key health effect associated with asbestos exposure due to the unique properties of asbestos fibers. When inhaled or ingested, these fibers can become lodged in the linings of the lungs (pleura) or the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), leading to inflammation and cellular changes over time. This rare and aggressive cancer primarily affects the pleura and is directly linked to asbestos exposure, often taking years to develop after the initial exposure.

In contrast, while bronchitis, asthma, and skin rashes can be related to other environmental exposures or conditions, they are not specifically linked to asbestos in the same direct way that mesothelioma is. Bronchitis is often associated with chronic irritation of the lungs, typically due to smoking or pollutants. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can be triggered by various allergens and irritants, without a direct connection to asbestos. Skin rashes typically do not result from asbestos exposure but rather from external allergens or irritants that cause dermatological reactions. Therefore, mesothelioma stands out as the most significant and unique health effect linked directly to asbestos exposure.