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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure. The first symptoms of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can emerge, like fatigue and weight loss. There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma. Symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses. The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. georgia asbestos lawsuit is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. 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 pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were 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. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can cause tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma. Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors. The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced. The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the available treatments. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, without obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.