While smokers have a higher risk for developing an asbestos-related disease, it does not mean that the likelihood that you will recover money from your claim would be decreased if you are a smoker. If you have mesothelioma, it will not be difficult to prove that the asbestos exposure was the cause of it because smoking does not cause mesothelioma. It is a little more difficult when it comes to lung cancer since smoking does cause this disease; however, asbestos exponentially increases the chance of developing lung cancer, which is why you are still entitled to compensation with your claim. An experienced South Carolina asbestos exposure attorney will be able to research your condition and separate the asbestos exposure from the smoking and get you the compensation that you deserve.