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"Ask Me Anything," 10 Responses To Your Questions About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for just 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

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. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. 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 typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.


Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. For many years, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships cars and many other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. peritoneal mesothelioma asbestos may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.

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