Mesotelioma pleural y exposición al amianto en España

Introduction: Asbestos is a mineral that showed to be carcinogenic. For decades it has been used in Spain in several industrial activities. Additionally, Spanish rules have been adopted for the storage, transport, labeling, control of the occupational environment and personal protective equipments. Objectives: Analyze the epidemiology, prognosis, treatment and prevention of pleural mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos in Spain. Methods: Descriptive study based on the review of the state of pleural mesothelioma in Spain. A bibliographic review and documentary analysis of the causal agent (asbestos) and pleural mesothelioma was done. Results: Procedures for the control of environmental pollution and health protection was determined, along with the implementation of collective and individual protection measures in relation to the exposure and the risk of pollution linked to the agent. Conclusions: The elimination of sources of the agent and health surveillance should be preventive tools against the development of the disease. The promotion and implementation of regulations that impose strict principles of banning, use or exposure to asbestos is required.