There are three main exposure routes for asbestos fibers: (1) inhalation, (2) ingestion, and (3) skin contact. However, inhalation is the primary route of entry leading to asbestos-related disease. Asbestos fibers may be released into the air by the disturbance of asbestos-containing material during product use, demolition work, building or home maintenance, repair, and remodeling. Three of the major health effects associated with asbestos exposure are: lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer that is found in the thin lining of the lung, chest and the abdomen and heart) and asbestosis (a serious progressive, long-term, non-cancer disease of the lungs). For more information on these and other health effects of asbestos exposure see the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the National Cancer Institute.