A form of PNEUMOCONIOSIS, in which widespread fine scarring occurs in the LUNGS, leading to severe breathing disability. The main hazard, however, is the risk of cancer (MESOTHELIOMA) of the lung or PLEURA, or sometimes of the ovary (see OVARIES). It is caused by the inhalation of mainly blue or brown asbestos dust, either during mining or quarrying, or in one of the many industries in which it is used – for example, as an insulating material, in the making of paper, cardboard and brake linings. A person suffering from asbestosis is entitled to compensation, as the disease is legally proscribed. About 1,000 people a year in the UK claim disability benefit because of the effects of asbestosis. There are about 3,000 deaths each year in which asbestosis is a cause or contributor. Most patients now being diagnosed with asbestosis have it as a consequence of industrial practices used before 1970. The use of asbestos is now strictly controlled, and when blue asbestos is found in old buildings, skilled workmen are employed to dispose of it.