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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings 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. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. 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 houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure. The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as fatigue and weight loss. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and interferes with their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those with a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used 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 can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure. When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was employed in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings, cars and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and request imaging tests 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. Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors. The exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available. The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. new britain asbestos lawsuit can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.