What should be the focus of medical surveillance programs for those exposed to asbestos?

The focus of medical surveillance programs for individuals exposed to asbestos should primarily be on health monitoring for disease detection. This is crucial because asbestos is associated with serious health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Regular health monitoring enables early detection of these diseases, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and may even help in preventing progression to more severe health issues.

Health surveillance programs typically involve routine medical examinations, imaging studies, and lung function tests aimed at identifying any early signs of asbestos-related diseases. By prioritizing health monitoring, these programs can effectively address the long-term effects of asbestos exposure and ensure that workers receive appropriate medical intervention when necessary.

While job guarantees, mental health support, and training in new technologies are important in the broader context of worker welfare and safety, they do not directly address the immediate health risks associated with asbestos exposure, making health monitoring the most pertinent focus in this context.