Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer in the general
population. However, in individuals that were exposed to
asbestos, it is not as rare. There are experts that have
speculated on other causes. There are incidences of Mesothelioma
with no known asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is not a lung
cancer. Smoking does not cause it. It is a cancer of the
mesothelial cells.
Causes of Mesothelioma The only known, established cause of
Mesothelioma is asbestos. The asbestos fibers are breathed in,
travel through the lung and become lodged in the pleura, the
thin, saran wrap-type membrane that lines that encases the lung.
The pleura, produces a special lubricating fluid that
facilitates the ability of the lungs to move inside the chest
during breathing. The process of irritation from the
infiltration of the asbestos fibers creates changes in the
cells, which causes the Mesothelioma. This is known as pleural
Mesothelioma. Less common is peritoneal Mesothelioma, which is a
cancer of the membrane that encompasses the lining of the
abdomen.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma An individual with Mesothelioma
experiences chest pain usually caused by a build-up of fluid in
the pleural space called an effusion and shortness of breath.
Since many doctors may not have expertise in the area of
asbestos-related diseases, these symptoms are often believed, at
first, to be attributable to other medical problems. A biopsy of
the pleural tissue or fluid may reveal the cancer of the
mesothelial cells and a proper diagnosis can thus be
established. A history of the individual's occupational exposure
shall be taken. Since there is no "safe" level of exposure to
asbestos, even brief, low level exposures may be enough to cause
Mesothelioma.
Occurrence of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer
and its incidence is actually increasing day by day. There is
presently no known cure for Mesothelioma. As the disease
progresses, the cancerous cells harden the pleura and spread. As
time passes, breathing, sleeping and eating become more
difficult and eventually it becomes increasingly more
challenging for the victim to engage in normal activities and
enjoy life.
Treatments of Mesothelioma A number of treatments have been
established to help contain the spread of the disease and reduce
the pain associated with it. Chemotherapy, radiation and radical
surgery to remove the lung and pleura are among the options that
have been explored by the treating physician.
Prevention is better than Cure Mesothelioma is a preventable
disease. Many of the corporations that manufacture and make
profit from the sale of asbestos-containing products are aware
of the hazards of asbestos. Alternative fibers are available
that could be used instead of asbestos. But asbestos is cheap,
and available, and is a good filler and binder.
To Sum up The varied and non-specific symptoms associated with
Mesothelioma, can delay detection and diagnosis The cancer has a
very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty
years or more before the person even realizes that they have
contracted the cancer .The onset of symptoms can take up to
fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have
manifested the lifespan of the person can be as short as several
months. So, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the
above symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Make sure that
your physician is aware of any previous asbestos exposure, and
occupational risk factors.