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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.





If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. asbestos lawyers can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings, cars and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers, especially those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's essential to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the available treatments. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the amount of compensation you deserve.