20 Trailblazers Are Leading The Way In Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a liner that protects the organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. Often, 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 other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings cars and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.


Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get harlingen asbestos attorney to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.