Are Older People Dying of Mesothelioma?

Asbestos exposure, a preventable cause of cancer, has been responsible for numerous deaths worldwide, leading to mesothelioma being a leading cause of death among industrial workers. Many people often wonder if older adults are also at risk. The answer is yes! Despite asbestos regulations and safety measures, mesothelioma continues to disproportionately affect older populations who were exposed to asbestos decades ago. Keep reading to learn more about the tragic impact of mesothelioma on older individuals.

The Impact of Asbestos Exposure on Older Populations

Being exposed to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that attacks the tissues surrounding the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Mesothelioma symptoms can take up to 40 years to manifest, making it difficult to diagnose and treat.

Asbestos was widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries, with many workers being exposed to the substance without proper safety precautions. Older adults who were exposed to asbestos decades ago are now developing mesothelioma, with over two-thirds of all mesothelioma cases affecting those over the age of 65.

Despite the banning of asbestos, people continue to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. The long latency period between asbestos exposure and cancer diagnosis means that those exposed to asbestos in the 1960s and 1970s are still developing mesothelioma today. Older adults who may have been exposed to asbestos at any point in their lives present with a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma in Older Adults: A Detailed Explanation

Older individuals who develop mesothelioma often experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. These symptoms are similar to other respiratory diseases, making it challenging to diagnose without a proper examination.

In many cases, mesothelioma is diagnosed in the later stages, where the cancer has already progressed, making it difficult to treat. Advanced mesothelioma in older adults is often treated with palliative care to manage the pain and symptoms associated with the disease.

It is essential to understand that being exposed to asbestos at any point in life increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can remain in the body for decades after exposure, leading to the development of cancer later in life.

Mesothelioma in Older Adults: Table

Age Group	Number of Cases	Percentage of Cases
Ages 65-74	478	31.2%
Ages 75-84	472	30.8%
Ages 85+	319	20.8%
Ages 55-64	129	8.4%
Ages 45-54	47	3.1%
Ages 35-44	24	1.6%
Ages 25-34	10	0.7%
Ages 15-24	1	0.1%

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mesothelioma in Older Adults

1. What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the tissues surrounding the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing.

2. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, and fatigue.

3. Can older adults develop mesothelioma?

Yes, older adults are at higher risk for developing mesothelioma due to their previous exposure to asbestos in their earlier years.

4. How long does it take to develop mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos?

Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 40 years to develop after being exposed to asbestos.

5. Can mesothelioma be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

6. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma often requires a biopsy or imaging tests such as a CT scan or X-ray.

7. What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?

Risk factors for mesothelioma include exposure to asbestos, family history, and smoking.

8. How can I reduce my risk of getting mesothelioma?

Avoiding asbestos exposure is the best way to reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma. If you must work with or around asbestos, be sure to wear proper protective gear and follow safety guidelines.

9. Can mesothelioma be prevented?

While mesothelioma cannot be entirely prevented, taking a proactive approach to avoid asbestos exposure can significantly reduce your risk of developing this cancer.

10. What is the life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma?

The life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis and the treatment plan. Generally, the prognosis is poor, with an average life expectancy of 12-21 months.

11. How does asbestos cause mesothelioma?

Asbestos fibers imbed in the lung tissues and cause inflammation and scarring, leading to cancerous cells.

12. Who is at risk of being exposed to asbestos?

Those who work or have worked in construction, manufacturing, and automotive industries are at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

13. How can I support those diagnosed with mesothelioma?

You can support those diagnosed with mesothelioma by offering emotional support, aiding in care tasks, and advocating for safer work environments and stricter asbestos regulations.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma, caused by asbestos exposure, is a tragic disease that continues to affect older adults who were exposed to asbestos in their youth. With the long latency period between exposure and mesothelioma diagnosis, many older adults are being diagnosed with the disease, leading to poor prognoses and limited treatment options. By avoiding asbestos exposure, individuals can mitigate their risk of developing mesothelioma. However, for those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is essential to offer support and advocate for safer work environments and stricter asbestos regulations to prevent others from developing this deadly disease.

Closing Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos, seek medical attention immediately. Consult with a licensed medical professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.