I recently left my job as a project manager of an abatement company. i assume i had numerous encounters of asbestos exposures (maybe 5 minutes at a time for a dozen or two times through 5 years). i have anxiety about it now. how worried should i be?

Please provide details of any respiratory symptoms. Did you wear a mask while working. The occupational masks will help to limit exposure. It is important to follow up, and a screening radiograph is recommended to document a baseline. Minimal exposure may not lead to long term sequelae. Watch for difficulty exercising, shortness of breath and cough.

Best approach to just screen, is a chest Xray or a CAT scan of lungs. Most contacts with asbestos do not result in pulmonary issues, but if you are concerned, do talk with your doctor and get screened.