The Tragic Story of Emily Ward Mesothelioma: A Deep Dive into the Disease and Its Impact

Introduction

Greetings, dear reader. This article aims to shed light on one of the deadliest diseases known to mankind. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, a protective lining that covers several internal organs in our bodies. In this article, we will focus on an individual who had to face the harsh reality of mesothelioma- Emily Ward.

Emily Ward was a loving mother and a wife who lived a happy life until she was diagnosed with mesothelioma. Her struggle with the disease and its impact is an eye-opener for all of us, and in this article, we will delve into the disease, its causes, symptoms and treatment options.

We hope that by the end of this article, you will have a deeper understanding of mesothelioma and the impact it has on the lives of those affected by it.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells. These cells are found in the protective lining of several internal organs such as lungs, abdomen, heart etc. Mesothelioma is usually caused by exposure to asbestos.

What are the Causes of Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were once widely used in various industries due to their heat-resistant properties. People who work in industries where asbestos is commonly used, such as construction and shipbuilding, are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma are usually non-specific and can mimic other diseases, making it difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.

What are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?

There are several treatment options available for mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The type of treatment plan recommended for mesothelioma patients depends on the stage of their cancer and other factors such as their age and overall health.

Emily Ward’s Story

Emily Ward was a vibrant and healthy 38-year-old woman who worked as a school teacher. She lived a happy life with her husband and two children until she started experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain. After several tests, she was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, a type of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the lungs.

Emily’s diagnosis came as a shock to her and her family. She had never worked in any industry that exposed her to asbestos, but she later discovered that her husband had worked in construction, and had unknowingly brought asbestos fibers home on his clothes, putting her and their children at risk of exposure.

Emily underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy to manage her cancer. Despite her best efforts, her condition worsened, and she passed away within a year of her diagnosis. Her death was a devastating blow to her family and friends.

Mesothelioma Table

What is Mesothelioma?	Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells.
What are the Causes of Mesothelioma?	Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos.
What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?	The symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.
What are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?	Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Who is at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?	People who work in industries where asbestos is commonly used are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
What is Pleural Mesothelioma?	Pleural mesothelioma is a type of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the lungs.
What is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?	Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the abdomen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?

The prognosis for mesothelioma varies depending on several factors such as the stage of cancer, age and overall health of the patient.

2. Can mesothelioma be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options are available to manage the cancer.

3. What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?

Exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma.

4. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests such as chest X-rays and CT scans, and a biopsy.

5. Can asbestos exposure cause other diseases besides mesothelioma?

Yes, asbestos exposure can cause other diseases such as lung cancer and asbestosis.

6. What can be done to prevent mesothelioma?

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is commonly used, be sure to take proper precautions such as wearing protective gear and limiting exposure to asbestos fibers.

7. Can mesothelioma be detected early?

Early detection of mesothelioma is difficult as symptoms do not usually appear until the cancer has progressed to an advanced stage.

8. What are the most common symptoms of mesothelioma?

The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.

9. Are there any new treatments for mesothelioma?

Research is ongoing to develop new treatments for mesothelioma, including immunotherapy and gene therapy.

10. How many people are affected by mesothelioma?

Each year, around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the United States.

11. What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?

The survival rate for mesothelioma varies depending on several factors such as the type of mesothelioma and the stage of cancer. Generally, the survival rate for mesothelioma is low.

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

If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to notify your healthcare provider and undergo regular check-ups to monitor for any signs of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

13. How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

Mesothelioma can take several decades to develop after exposure to asbestos, making it difficult to diagnose and treat.

Conclusion

The impact of mesothelioma on individuals and their families cannot be overstated. Emily Ward’s story is a chilling reminder of the devastating effects of mesothelioma and the importance of taking proper precautions to avoid exposure to asbestos.

We hope that this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of mesothelioma and the impact it has on those affected by it. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical attention and explore all available treatment options.

Closing Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.