Mesothelioma - Chances of Getting Mesothelioma From Asbestos Exposure Exposure to asbestos can increase the mesothelioma risk. It's unclear whether the risk decreases when exposure stops. A mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers are trapped in the lung's lining (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum). There are a variety of types of mesothelioma.
