At What Age Can You Get Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly type of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue that covers the internal organs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials in the United States until the 1980s.

The symptoms of mesothelioma often do not appear until decades after exposure to asbestos. As a result, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat. In this article, we will explore at what age can you get mesothelioma, the risk factors for developing the disease, and how to protect yourself from exposure to asbestos.

Introduction

You may be wondering at what age can you get mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 50 and 70, but it can occur at any age. In rare cases, mesothelioma has been diagnosed in children and young adults who have been exposed to asbestos.

While the risk of developing mesothelioma increases with age, it is important to note that the disease can take decades to develop. In fact, many people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos in their 20s or 30s, but do not develop symptoms until much later in life.

In the following sections, we will discuss the risk factors for developing mesothelioma, the symptoms of the disease, and how to protect yourself from asbestos exposure.

Risk Factors

Age

While mesothelioma can develop at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50. This is because the disease can take 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Gender

Mesothelioma is more common in men than in women. This is because men are more likely to have been exposed to asbestos in their workplaces, such as in the construction or shipbuilding industries.

Occupation

People who work in certain industries are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure. These industries include construction, shipbuilding, automotive repair, and manufacturing.

Family History

While there is no conclusive evidence that mesothelioma is hereditary, there may be a genetic component to the disease. People with a family history of mesothelioma may be more likely to develop the disease themselves.

Smoking

Smoking does not cause mesothelioma, but it can increase the risk of developing the disease in people who have been exposed to asbestos.

Symptoms

Mesothelioma symptoms can take years to develop after exposure to asbestos. The most common symptoms include:

Shortness of Breath

Mesothelioma can cause fluid to build up in the lining of the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.

Chest Pain

As the cancer spreads, it can cause pain in the chest or abdomen.

Persistent Cough

Mesothelioma can cause a cough that does not go away.

Fatigue

People with mesothelioma may experience extreme tiredness or fatigue.

Prevention

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, it is important to take proper precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and following safety guidelines.

If you live or work in a building that was built before the 1980s, it may contain asbestos. If you suspect that there is asbestos in your building, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact a professional asbestos removal company to handle it safely.

Table

Age Range	% of Mesothelioma Cases
Under 45	Less than 5%
45-54	20%
55-64	33%
65 and over	42%

FAQs

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, and fatigue.

At what age can you get mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 50 and 70.

What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?

The risk factors for mesothelioma include age, gender, occupation, family history, and smoking.

How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is diagnosed through imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, and a biopsy of the affected tissue.

How is mesothelioma treated?

Mesothelioma treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Is mesothelioma curable?

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Can mesothelioma be prevented?

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, it is important to take proper precautions.

How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?

Mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Can children get mesothelioma?

While rare, mesothelioma has been diagnosed in children and young adults who have been exposed to asbestos.

Is mesothelioma hereditary?

While there is no conclusive evidence that mesothelioma is hereditary, there may be a genetic component to the disease.

How can I protect myself from asbestos exposure?

If you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, it is important to take proper precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and following safety guidelines.

How do I know if there is asbestos in my building?

If you suspect that there is asbestos in your building, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact a professional asbestos removal company to handle it safely.

What should I do if I have been exposed to asbestos?

If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to talk to your doctor about getting regular check-ups to monitor for any signs of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. While the disease can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 50 and 70. If you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, it is important to take proper precautions to protect yourself. If you suspect that there is asbestos in your building, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact a professional asbestos removal company to handle it safely.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. While there is no cure for the disease, treatment can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.