Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung's lining (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer may also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium).
Asbestos is a major mesothelioma risk factor. Certain mesothelioma patients do not have a history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a mineral that is natural that was previously used in industrial and construction products worldwide. Workers working in asbestos-related industries were exposed asbestos every day. Asbestos fibers can get into the lungs and cause lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, the fibers that are trapped in the lungs may cause mesothelioma. Asbestos can also be breathed in or eaten and the risk of mesothelioma and other
asbestos claim-related diseases rises with the length and quantity of exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos is widely used in jobs, including electrical work, and maintenance of automobiles. These trades are typically heavily populated by males, and as a result, male mesothelioma cases account for 75-80 percent of all cases reported. The elimination of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations, has reduced occupational contamination. This has led to a shift in cases, with occupational exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can occur when asbestos is released from the workplace environment or found in the home or school environment. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, for instance, when a family member is exposed to the work clothes of a asbestos worker. The people who suffer from this type of exposure may experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain that is often mistaken for heart or lung conditions.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma to non-occupational exposure, but the results differ. These studies were conducted with only a few participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was quite high. Further research is required to confirm the links between mesothelioma and exposure to non-occupational substances.
Anyone who has been exposed to non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos background with their doctor. They should have mesothelioma screening in the event of concerns and request an appointment with an expert. Specialists in mesothelioma will provide the most effective treatment and care to improve the patient's chances of survival. They will look over medical records and conduct imaging tests to determine if mesothelioma is present. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to get compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to get this cancer. There is some evidence that people who have never been exposed to
asbestos settlement or worked in industries with
asbestos settlement-related work can still develop mesothelioma. This is known as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are extremely tiny, and they can stick to clothing, hair or skin as well as other surfaces. This means that workers may bring the harmful fibers home with them on their work clothes, and then transfer them to family members. The asbestos fibers that are scattered around can be swallowed or inhaled, which can cause mesothelioma.
The mesothelioma type is more common in women, and typically occurs in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. Shortness of breath is the most frequent sign. It can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, such as fluid in the lungs and swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is known as mesothelioma of the pleural region. Mesothelioma that affects the stomach or chest wall is known as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. A person with this type of mesothelioma might experience a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, breathing difficulties and constipation.
Several studies have reported that individuals with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos could develop mesothelioma due to secondhand exposure to the harmful fibers. Most often, these people have lived with someone who was exposed to the harmful material. They may have touched the garments of the worker, or they might have had other exposure to
asbestos claim.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma because of the widespread use of
asbestos in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is particularly at risk because asbestos was used to insulate the hull of the ship, as well as to fireproof gun turrets. In addition, sailors often brought asbestos back from their work on ships that were contaminated with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been associated with mesothelioma. However, the condition is usually linked to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was used in manufacturing for a long time. The mineral is resistant to heat and durable which makes it suitable for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles, and other products. When asbestos is broken up it releases dust which can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers may remain in the stomach or lungs for a long time, triggering mesothelioma symptoms.
The most common mesothelioma symptoms are breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, and chest pain. Asbestos victims might be suffering from these symptoms for up to 60 years or more following their initial exposure. The symptoms can be misinterpreted as other illnesses, so it is essential to consult a doctor if you have these symptoms. It is also important to tell your doctor about your past history of asbestos. This will prevent an incorrect diagnosis and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment.
The most frequent victims of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure are those who have worked directly with asbestos however it is possible for loved relatives to be affected. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers on the clothes of a worker's tools or shoes. They could also be brought to home by someone who is wearing or having hair. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families should always be sure to wash their clothing properly after working around asbestos.
There is a significant body of literature that shows a relationship between nonasbestos exposure and mesothelioma, but there is no conclusive evidence yet regarding the role played by other agents. There is evidence to suggest that the zeolites, namely erionite and chlorosotile which can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in soil and rocks in certain parts of Turkey, where pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
Research into the relationship between
mesothelioma and nonasbestos exposure is continuing. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant level of heterogeneity between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells which grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body passing through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and affecting other organs. Although asbestos is the principal mesothelioma trigger, it is not the only risk factor. Other genetic and environmental factors can trigger the condition.
In some instances, mesothelioma has occurred in people who had no direct exposure to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They usually had an indirect exposure due to the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by an asbestos-exposed individual within their household.