A new study by researchers at Duke University has found that sheet metal workers are at a significantly higher risk of several asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. The American Journal of Industrial Medicine study examined health records for nearly 18,000 sheet metal workers who had taken part in a 20 year screening program.

Sheet metal workers may be involved in a number of different job types, including installing heating and air conditioning ducts, manufacturing household appliances such as refrigerators and working in shipyards or the railroad industry. Many sheet metal workers suffered asbestos exposure from a coating which used to be sprayed on surfaces for fireproofing. This method was banned in 1973.

According to the study, sheet metal workers were much more likely to be diagnosed with diseases that include mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. The study also found an increased risk of cardio obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Researchers found that even workers whose X-rays did not reveal asbestosis or abnormalities in the lining of the lungs were at an increased risk of mesothelioma and cancers of the pleura, the lining of the chest and abdomen.