Mesothelioma and Work Exposure Mesothelioma is more common in people who work with asbestos. Firefighters, construction workers and veterans of the military are at higher risk. The lung's lining (pleural mesothelioma) or abdomen, is the primary mesothelioma site. In rare instances, it may cause damage to the testicles or heart. https://vimeo.com/704905371