How Do You Contract Mesothelioma?

The Silent Killer: Mesothelioma

Greetings, dear readers. There are certain illnesses out there that many people may not even be aware of, and mesothelioma is one of them. This rare, yet deadly, form of cancer affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and, in rare cases, the heart. Most of the time, mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally-occurring mineral that is known for its heat-resistant properties. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to terrible health problems, with mesothelioma being just one of them. In this article, we will discuss in detail how one can contract mesothelioma, how to prevent it, and what to do if you’ve already been diagnosed with it.

Mesothelioma Causes: Exposure to Asbestos

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is associated with exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestos was widely used in construction and manufacturing industries in the 20th century, and its usage was not regulated until the 1980s. This means that many people who worked in these industries prior to the 1980s were exposed to asbestos fibers without even knowing it. Once inhaled, these fibers can get lodged in the lungs and cause damage to the mesothelium, the protective lining of the lungs and other organs.

It can take several years or even decades for the symptoms of mesothelioma to manifest, and by then, it may be too late to treat it. This is why early detection is crucial in the case of mesothelioma.

Who Is at Risk for Mesothelioma?

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos fibers is at risk for mesothelioma. However, some people are at a higher risk than others:

Group	Description
Construction Workers	Those who worked in construction or demolition industries
Shipyard Workers	Those who worked in shipyards or naval dockyards
Manufacturing Workers	Those who worked in plants or factories where asbestos products were manufactured
Veterans	Those who served in the military, especially the Navy, prior to the 1980s
Family Members	Those who were exposed to asbestos fibers through their family members who worked with asbestos

Preventing Mesothelioma

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos fibers. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, make sure to follow all safety protocols and wear protective gear. If you suspect that your workplace may have asbestos fibers, speak to your employer about getting it inspected and removed. Additionally, if you live in an older home, make sure to get it inspected for asbestos before doing any renovations or repairs.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

As we mentioned earlier, mesothelioma symptoms may take several years or even decades to manifest. This is because the damage to the mesothelium occurs gradually over time. Here are some common symptoms of mesothelioma:

Chest and Abdominal Pain

Mesothelioma can cause pain in the chest or abdomen, which may be mistaken for other conditions such as pneumonia or a hernia. The pain may also be accompanied by shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Coughing and Wheezing

A persistent cough or wheezing may be a sign of mesothelioma. This is because asbestos fibers can irritate the lining of the lungs, leading to coughing or wheezing.

Fatigue and Weakness

Mesothelioma can cause fatigue and weakness, which may be mistaken for other conditions such as the flu. This is because mesothelioma can affect the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight off infection.

Fluid Buildup

One of the more serious symptoms of mesothelioma is fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen. This can lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even heart failure.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

If you suspect that you may have mesothelioma, it’s important to see a doctor right away. They may perform a series of tests to diagnose mesothelioma, such as:

X-rays and CT Scans

These tests can help detect abnormal growths and fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen.

Biopsies

A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. This can help determine if the tissue is cancerous or not.

Blood Tests

Although there is no blood test specifically for mesothelioma, certain biomarkers may indicate the presence of the disease.

Mesothelioma Treatment

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the disease and the individual’s overall health. Here are some treatment options:

Surgery

Surgery may be an option for those with early-stage mesothelioma. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy particles to kill cancer cells. This may be used in conjunction with surgery or on its own.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. This may be used in conjunction with surgery or radiation therapy, or on its own.

Mesothelioma FAQs

1. Can you get mesothelioma from one-time exposure to asbestos?

Yes, even one-time exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma. However, the risk is higher for those who have had repeated exposure.

2. How long does it take for mesothelioma symptoms to appear?

It can take several years or even decades for mesothelioma symptoms to appear.

3. Is mesothelioma contagious?

No, mesothelioma is not contagious. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers.

4. Can mesothelioma be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, early detection and treatment can improve one’s chances of survival.

5. Can mesothelioma be prevented?

Yes, mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos fibers.

6. What is the life expectancy of someone with mesothelioma?

The life expectancy of someone with mesothelioma depends on the stage of the disease and the individual’s overall health.

7. Is mesothelioma a common type of cancer?

No, mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is typically associated with exposure to asbestos fibers.

Conclusion

Dear readers, mesothelioma is a serious illness that is often caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. If you suspect that you may have been exposed to asbestos, or if you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early detection and treatment can improve your chances of survival. Remember to take all necessary precautions to avoid exposure to asbestos fibers and stay safe.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek legal advice right away. There may be compensation available for medical bills and other expenses related to the illness.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be 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. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.