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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 exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could be observed, including weight loss and fatigue. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs. When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases. In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. When they perform an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other illnesses. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. 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 help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming within your body. Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. bethlehem asbestos attorneys may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes. Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available. While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, without commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.