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20 Myths About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma: Dispelled
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings 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 materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include breathing problems and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. For a long time it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of exposure 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 inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. In time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. lincoln asbestos attorneys can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

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

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors to form.


The exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in construction and 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 trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination 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 diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.