An analysis of 344 patients with asbestos related conditions seen between June 1988 and December 1993 is reported. Malignant mesothelioma occurred in 42%, asbestosis in 19% and cancer of the lung in 4%. All those suffering from asbestosis had a history of heavy exposure to asbestos dust, whereas many of those with mesothelioma had experienced only relatively light exposures. The experience with mesothelioma has lead to an unreasoning fear of any contact with asbestos and brought about policies resulting in many instances of its unnecessary and expensive removal.