Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung's lining (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes.
Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may not have a history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once employed in industrial and construction products worldwide. People who worked in asbestos industries handled the mineral on a daily basis, putting them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can get lodged in the lungs, which can lead to progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. As time passes, the asbestos fibers that are trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos is also inhaled or consumed, and the risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases depending on the duration and amount of exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases stem from exposure to occupational toxins. Asbestos was used in various trades, including construction, insulation, electrical work, automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These trades are typically dominated by men and as a consequence mesothelioma cases involving males comprise 75-80 percent of all cases reported. However, the gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has reduced exposure to asbestos on the job. This has resulted in a shift of cases as non-occupational asbestos exposure increasing in frequency.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can develop when asbestos is released from the workplace environment or is found in the home or school surroundings. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand asbestos, such as when a family member handles the clothing of an exposed asbestos worker. The people who suffer from this type of exposure may have symptoms such as breathlessness or chest pain, which is often mistaken as lung or heart conditions.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma to non-occupational exposure, however the results are different. These studies were conducted with only a few participants, and the variability between studies was quite high. It is necessary to conduct additional studies to confirm the connection between non-occupational asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to non-occupational asbestos should discuss their asbestos history with their physician. They should seek mesothelioma tests in the event of concerns and request an appointment with an expert. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the most effective treatment and care options to improve their chances of survival. They will analyze medical records and perform imaging tests to diagnose mesothelioma. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to receive compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to develop this cancer. In fact, there's some evidence that people can get mesothelioma even though they never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is known as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are very small and they can stick to hair, clothing, skin and other surfaces. Workers can carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home and then pass them on to family members. These stray asbestos fibers can be inhaled or swallowed, which can cause mesothelioma.
The mesothelioma type is more prevalent in women, and usually occurs in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea), and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs, or a swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is a name used to describe mesothelioma that is found in the lungs. Mesothelioma affecting the chest wall or stomach is referred to as peritoneal mesothelioma. This kind of mesothelioma may cause a variety of symptoms like abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that people with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos can still get mesothelioma because of exposure to
asbestos attorney through secondhand fibers. These individuals usually lived with someone who had been exposed to asbestos. They could have handled the worker's clothing or had other contact with asbestos.
Veterans are at a higher risk of mesothelioma because asbestos was widely used in military bases vessels, vehicles and bases. The Navy is particularly at risk because asbestos was used to protect the hull of the ship, as well as to fireproof gun turrets. In addition, sailors frequently brought home asbestos from their jobs aboard vessels that were contaminated with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma is linked to a variety of substances. Nevertheless, the disease is often linked to exposure to
asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used for a variety of years in the manufacture of. The mineral is heat-resistant and tough, which makes it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. When
asbestos law is broken up it releases dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the lungs or stomach for years, triggering mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most common mesothelioma symptoms are chest pain, abdominal discomfort and difficulty breathing. Asbestos patients may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or more following their initial exposure. It is essential to consult an expert physician if you experience these symptoms. It is also crucial to tell your doctor about your past history of asbestos. This can prevent a wrong diagnosis and ensure that you receive the proper treatment.
Mesothelioma that is caused by exposure to asbestos is the most common in people who worked directly with asbestos however, it can also affect loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members may inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on the clothes of a worker's shoes, or other tools. They may be exposed to asbestos to asbestos by someone who brings home these particles on their clothing or hair. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families should always take care to clean their clothing after working with asbestos.
There is a significant amount of research that suggests a relationship between nonasbestos exposure and mesothelioma, but there aren't any definitive conclusions yet regarding the role played by other agents. For example, there is some evidence that the zeolites erionite and chlorosotile may cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in soil and rocks in certain regions of Turkey in which mesothelioma occurrence rates are high.
Research into the relationship between mesothelioma and nonasbestos exposure continues. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant level of heterogeneity among studies. However, it is still clear that occupational exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
The rare disease mesothelioma occurs when malignant cells of the mesothelium grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can be expand throughout the body through traversing the lymphatic system or bloodstream and affecting other organs. Although asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma isn't the only risk factor. Other environmental and genetic factors can trigger the condition.
In a few cases mesothelioma has been found in people who were not exposed to asbestos.