Are you also wondering what mesothelioma is? It is a malignant tumor that develops when one inhales asbestos fibers. They form in the lungs’ lining, the abdomen, and the heart. It is a rapidly progressive disease with a life expectancy of 12 months after diagnosis.
Some treatments may improve the prognosis, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. But the disease largely remains incurable. So how does one know they have mesothelioma?
Symptoms
The symptoms become obvious when the tumors grow and press against the chest and abdominal walls again. But since its symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, misdiagnosis cases are extremely common. If you were exposed to asbestos, you need to be aware of it. Common symptoms include:
- Having a dry cough
- Breathing problems
- Respiratory complications
- Chest or abdominal pain
- The feeling of having a fever or sweating at night
- Inflammation of the lungs due to pleural effusion
- Fatigue
- Weakness in the muscles
How does mesothelioma develop?
The primary, least known cause of the disease is asbestos exposure. Fibers containing asbestos are often used in building materials because they are durable and fine. Inhalation of the fibers can cause swelling and scarring of internal tissue by damaging cells and instigating uncontrolled cell growth. 80% of the people who develop mesothelioma have been in the presence of asbestos. But this refers to continuous exposure to the substance. Most people who are exposed to asbestos sparingly develop mesothelioma.
Another cause may be the radiation therapy that one receives for other cancer treatments. As this severe treatment often damages the DNA and cells
Most diagnosed cases are of Pleural Mesothelioma, which forms on the lining of the lungs. It is the most common form of this deadly cancer. However, mesothelioma tumors are not only restricted to the lungs; they can also form on the linings of the heart, abdomen, and testes.
Risk Factors for Mesothelioma
The cause for mesothelioma is anything that increases the probability of the malignancy. It can be achieved by being aware of the possible causes and talking to your doctor.
The factors that might raise the risk of Mesothelioma: What are those factors?
Asbestos exposure
While a one-time exposure will not lead to developing mesothelioma, it will certainly increase its risk. Asbestos is a natural mineral used in shingles, insulation, cement, and other products. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or swallowed by people who make or work with asbestos-containing products. They can be carried on clothing, exposing others. Studies show that 60% to 70% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos.
Therefore, you are at a higher risk when:
- Miners, workers in factories, insulation manufacturers, installers, railway and automobile workers, chaff cutters, gas mask producers, pipefitters, construction workers, and veterans work in these fields.
- Stayed in an outdated home (30 years or older )
- Time spent in older commercial or buildings.
- Lung cancer risk increases when smoking and asbestos exposure are combined.
- After radiation therapy for lymphoma, mesothelioma may develop.
- About 1% of people with mesothelioma inherit it, usually because of a mutation in the BAP1 gene.
Construction tradespeople and firefighters also risk exposure to asbestos while working in old homes and structures built with contaminated materials. Additionally, asbestos can be released during renovations, demolitions, and natural disasters.
Furthermore, veterans are at higher risk of mesothelioma due to the widespread use of asbestos by the U.S. armed forces. However, those who served in the Army and especially the Navy faced the highest risk of exposure because they used asbestos to prevent fires in shipyards and vessels.
Secondhand Exposure
There is also the risk of secondhand exposure. The chemical may be passed straight to the affected people’s families directly. Besides, asbestos tends to stick to hair, clothes, and skin. So interaction and contact with workers like manufacturers or installers can also raise the risk. Additionally, smoking, radiation exposure, and genetics also play an essential role in determining whether you’ll develop the disease.
How to prevent mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma can be prevented by adhering to workplace safety regulations. Knowing how you might be exposed to asbestos at work and home can mean the difference between life and death.
Exposure to asbestos in the workplace is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Workers who handle asbestos products should follow safety precautions for their protection and cleaning protocols to avoid exposing asbestos to their family members.
Be careful of materials in old homes that may contain asbestos. Do-it-yourself renovations in older homes put everyone at risk of asbestos exposure, especially if you are unaware of how much is present. Make sure to run tests for asbestos and enlist the help of professionals who provide asbestos removals, so that you can get it taken out as soon as possible if detected.
Final Words
In the end, the decision is yours. So, suppose you believe that maybe a past job or home repair project exposed you to asbestos. In that case, you should get an appointment and ask your doctor to monitor for signs of asbestos-related diseases. But, on the other hand, if you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure, especially in the workplace, don’t wait for problems to occur. For effective mesothelioma treatment, early detection is crucial.
