Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma attorney more than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma attorney is not a contagious disease but relatives of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a physician for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma Lawsuit; dennis-marsh-3.technetbloggers.de,. We are committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.