Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of this disease, with symptoms often not appearing until 20-50 years after exposure. While traditional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are commonly used, some patients explore alternative treatments to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. In this post, we will delve into the common causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for mesothelioma, as well as the support and legal assistance available for patients.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers most of the body’s internal organs. This aggressive and deadly disease is most commonly linked to asbestos exposure, and it can affect the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or heart (pericardial mesothelioma).
Key Points about Mesothelioma:
- Types of Mesothelioma: The three main types of mesothelioma are pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial mesothelioma, each affecting different areas of the body.
- Causes: Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, with other potential risk factors including radiation exposure and a rare genetic condition called simian virus 40 (SV40) infection.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear for 20-50 years after exposure to asbestos, and can include chest or abdominal pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
- Prognosis: Prognosis for mesothelioma is often poor, as the disease is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. However, early detection and advancements in treatment can improve outcomes.
Understanding the basics of mesothelioma is essential in identifying the disease, its causes, and the potential for alternative treatments alongside conventional options.
Common Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in various industries. The development of mesothelioma is often linked to prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers, which can easily be ingested or inhaled. Here are some common causes and risk factors associated with mesothelioma:
- Occupational Exposure: Individuals working in occupations such as construction, mining, shipbuilding, and asbestos manufacturing are at a higher risk of asbestos exposure. These workers may have come in contact with asbestos-containing materials on a daily basis.
- Secondhand Exposure: Family members of workers who were exposed to asbestos may also be at risk. This is often due to the asbestos fibers being carried home on the clothes of the exposed worker.
- Environmental Exposure: Living near asbestos mines or in areas with naturally occurring asbestos deposits can also lead to mesothelioma. Additionally, natural disasters or construction activities can disturb asbestos-containing materials, leading to environmental exposure.
- Military Service: Asbestos was widely used in the military for its insulating properties. As a result, veterans may have been exposed to asbestos during their service, especially in navy ships, leading to a higher incidence of mesothelioma among veterans.