The History Of Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around jersey city asbestos lawyer in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. 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 on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include breathing problems, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.
The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura), though it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For many years it was utilized in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. In time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most commonly encountered type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.