When was lung cancer recognized as related to asbestos exposure?

Lung cancer was recognized as related to asbestos exposure in 1949 when significant studies began to emerge establishing a clear connection between asbestos and various forms of lung disease, particularly lung cancer. The recognition was fuelled by observations from medical professionals and epidemiological studies that showed increased incidences of lung cancer among workers exposed to asbestos compared to the general population.

This period marked a pivotal moment in occupational health as it led to increased scrutiny of asbestos use and ultimately resulted in regulations aimed at protecting workers from the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. As awareness of the risks associated with asbestos continued to develop in the subsequent years, public health policies began to evolve, laying the groundwork for further research and legislation on occupational diseases.