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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types 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 that was used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss. There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and 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. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses. The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was utilized in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present in your body. Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin, and. Alhambra asbestos lawsuit could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. 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, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes. Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that may be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced. The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.