Be On The Lookout For: How Asbestos Disease Mesothelioma Is Gaining Ground, And What Can We Do About It

Mesothelioma – A Rare Asbestos Disease Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, is found in the linings of internal organs. It is most prevalent in the lungs and abdomen (peritoneum) however it can also occur in the pleura. The chance of developing the disease is increased when asbestos is exposed. The exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber resistant to heat and fire, is the primary risk factor. The symptoms may not show up until decades after exposure. Signs and symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissue that lines the stomach, lungs, and the heart. It is usually caused when asbestos fibers inhale and deposited in the organ lining. Those who have been exposed to asbestos, such as plumbers, miners, and carpenters are the most at risk. People who live with asbestos-contaminated workers may also be affected. Other people at risk include those who live in a home in which asbestos is present, and those who disturb asbestos during renovations to their homes or maintenance. There are four stages of mesothelioma. People in the early and mid-stages don't show any symptoms and can go on for years before they are diagnosed. When they are diagnosed the cancer is advanced and difficult to treat. The symptoms of mesothelioma do not typically show up until years after exposure. The disease takes a long time to develop due to asbestos fibers that must be transported from the lungs into other body parts before they can cause mesothelioma. The lining of the lungs is the most typical place where mesothelioma begins however it could start in the linings of the stomach or heart. It can even appear in the lining of the reproductive organs. A biopsy of the area affected is the most effective way to help doctors to determine if mesothelioma is present. The sample is then tested under microscopes to determine if the cancerous cells are mesothelioma or another kind of cancer. Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to help identify the problem and determine if there is a tumor, a thickening or enlargement of the lining in the chest or abdomen and fluid in the chest cavity. They may also recommend an examination of lung function to measure how well a person's lungs are working. A mesothelioma diagnosis mistake could be detrimental because it may delay the start of treatment that could improve the patient's chances of survival. It is therefore important to see a doctor whenever you experience any signs. A GP can evaluate the signs and symptoms and determine if a person has a history of exposure to asbestos. Diagnosis Mesothelioma is a form of cancer, develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium lining covers organs in the body, including the chest and abdominal cavity. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma that affects the lung's outer layer (pleura). Mesothelioma is not as common in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) as well as the heart sac (pericardium) or in the testicles. A doctor can diagnose mesothelioma by taking a tissue sample for biopsy or imaging tests. The doctor can determine the severity of mesothelioma. This is an indication of how aggressive and likely it will spread. The exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring, heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was employed in the manufacturing and construction industries until the late 1970s. Mesothelioma is more frequent in people who have worked in asbestos milling, mining pipefitters, insulators and milling. Inhaling the microscopic asbestos fibers can lead to mesothelioma. These fibers can be trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the chance of someone smoking, which increases their risk for mesothelioma. The risk of mesothelioma increasing with the time spent in asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to high levels of asbestos. There are some risk factors that can be altered like the age of a person or whether they smoke, but the majority mesothelioma risk factors are related to asbestos exposure. Certain risk factors cannot be altered for example, the family history of a person or genetics. Mesothelioma is more likely to occur in people with certain health conditions or illnesses like diabetes or heart disease. rancho cucamonga asbestos lawsuit is a condition that affects the mesothel forms the lungs and abdomen. Mesothelioma can be found in people who have been exposed to asbestos. The disease typically develops decades after exposure. It is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be similar to other conditions and come and go. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma can receive compensation through lawsuits or trust fund claims. There is no cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatment options to treat the disease and improve the quality of your life. Patients should seek medical attention from a doctor who has experience treating the disease. Doctors will examine the medical history of the patient to look for signs and possible mesothelioma risk factors, such as asbestos exposure. The most common cause of Mesothelioma's is exposure to asbestos. It usually occurs due to breathing asbestos fibers, which are tiny and hang in the air. These fibers can get stuck in the lungs, creating genetic mutations which can result in cancer. The most prevalent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma that affects the lining of the lungs. It can also affect the chest lining (pericardium) and abdomen and testicles (peritoneal peritoneal cancer). Like all cancers, mesothelioma is caused by DNA of cells that are experiencing mutations. These mutations lead the cell to grow uncontrollably, resulting in the formation of a tumor. Men over 75 years old and veterans of the U.S. armed forces are most likely to develop mesothelioma. There are several types of mesothelioma and each has a distinct survival rate. Patients must be aware that a mesothelioma diagnosis can be serious and is difficult to treat. The research is progressing however there is hope. Veterans with mesothelioma may also be eligible to receive VA benefits. Prevention Mesothelioma, although rare, is extremely avoidable. Asbestos is a mineral that is naturally occurring that was once extensively used in shipbuilding, construction, and other industries due to its unique properties of strength, durability as well as heat insulation, and fire resistance. The microscopic asbestos fibers become airborne when disturbed and may cause serious health conditions such as mesothelioma when inhaled. Asbestos is the sole way to stay clear of mesothelioma. Asbestos exposure is the primary reason for mesothelioma and most people diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some time in their lives. Smoking, age, and genes can increase the risk of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most often found in the abdomen and lungs. (tummy). Rarely, mesothelioma can develop in other parts of the body. Mesothelioma is a lengthy process to develop, and it may not manifest for 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. People who have been exposed to asbestos should consult their doctor regularly if they have any unusual symptoms. This may include coughing, or a shortness of breath. Symptoms of asbestosis include tightness in the chest, frequent coughing, and a blue appearance to the skin because the body is struggling to get enough oxygen. Inhaled fibers of asbestos can also irritate lung tissue and cause scarring, known as fibrosis. This could cause fluid to build up in the lungs, as well as other organs including the heart. Inflammation can cause genetic changes that can cause cancers to grow in the lungs. Asbestosis cannot be treated however there are treatments to alleviate symptoms. These treatments can improve breathing and quality of life for patients. Mesothelioma most often occurs in the lungs and tummy but it can also affect the stomach, heart and testicles. There is no way to prevent mesothelioma. However there are ways to reduce the risk. Ask your employer about safety guidelines and make sure you examine the workplace for asbestos. It is also a good idea to wear protective equipment and wash their workplace clothes outside of their home so that they're not left on clothing belonging to family members.