People who worked in asbestos textile plants during the period from the 1950s to 1970s face a significantly increased risk of lung cancer and death due to chrysotile asbestos exposure, according to a study published in the journal, Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

Asbestos has previously been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis (a chronic lung disorder). This study specifically looked at four North Carolina plants that produced textile products with chrysotile asbestos—the most commonly used form of this industrial fiber. Amosite and crocidolite are two lesser-used forms of asbestos. Past studies had raised questions about the potential of these different asbestos fibers to cause cancer.