This study showed an increase in lung cancer in workers exposed to beryllium.

We believe that the most likely cause of the increase in lung cancer was exposure to beryllium.

Other scientists believe that smoking or exposure to acid mists, uranium, or nickel caused part or all of the increase in lung cancer.

Our study also confirmed that exposure to beryllium can cause lung diseases, especially chronic beryllium disease.

Even employees who worked with beryllium for less than a year may be at risk of developing chronic beryllium disease and lung cancer.

The lung cancer seen in this study generally occurred many years after first exposure to beryllium. Therefore, it is possible that workers will continue to have an increased risk of lung cancer.

Any Questions?

If you, your doctor, or a family member would like more information, call our toll free number: 1-800-356-4674.



Steps to Protect Your Health

Symptoms of Chronic Beryllium Disease and Lung Cancer

If you have been exposed to beryllium, you may be at increased risk of lung cancer or chronic beryllium disease. Although only a few people will develop these diseases, you may want to know the symptoms.

The main symptoms of chronic beryllium disease are shortness of breath while exercising or walking, cough, fatigue, weight loss, or chest pain.

These symptoms, as well as coughing up blood, may also be symptoms of lung cancer.

Even if you have these symptoms, it may not mean you have a serious illness.