Mesothelioma in Maryland: Risks, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

🚨 Attention Maryland Residents: Protect Yourself from Mesothelioma 🚨

Greetings, fellow Maryland residents! Today, we’re here to talk about something that could greatly impact your health and safety – mesothelioma. This rare and aggressive cancer is linked to exposure to asbestos, and Maryland has a particularly high incidence rate due to its history of heavy industry and shipyards.

In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about mesothelioma – from its causes and symptoms to the latest treatment options. We want to help you stay informed and empowered when it comes to your health.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue that covers most of your internal organs, called the mesothelium. It’s most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos – a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing for its fire-resistant properties. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the mesothelium and eventually lead to cancer.

Types of Mesothelioma

There are four main types of mesothelioma, each with slightly different symptoms and treatment options:

Type	Location	Frequency
Pleural	Lungs, chest wall	75%
Peritoneal	Abdomen	20%
Pericardial	Heart	5%
Testicular	Testicles	Rare

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

One of the reasons mesothelioma can be so dangerous is that its symptoms often don’t appear until the cancer is advanced. However, if you’ve been exposed to asbestos and experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible:

Common Symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Persistent cough
• Lumps under the skin

Less Common Symptoms:

• Persistent hoarseness
• Abdominal pain or swelling (in peritoneal mesothelioma)
• Irregular heartbeat or heart murmurs (in pericardial mesothelioma)
• Swelling or lumps in the testicles (in testicular mesothelioma)

Mesothelioma in Maryland: What You Need to Know

Maryland is one of the states in the U.S. with a higher incidence of mesothelioma. The state has a long history of heavy industry and shipbuilding, which are industries that extensively used asbestos-containing materials in the past. This put workers in these industries at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma as a result of their exposure to asbestos.

Mesothelioma Statistics in Maryland

According to the Environmental Working Group, Maryland has an overall mesothelioma death rate of 11.9 per million people, with 878 mesothelioma deaths recorded between 1999 and 2017. The state also has several high-risk areas for mesothelioma, including Baltimore, Cumberland, and Hagerstown.

Industries at Risk of Mesothelioma in Maryland

As previously mentioned, industries that used asbestos-containing materials are at high risk of causing mesothelioma. In Maryland, these industries include shipbuilding, automotive repair, construction, and power generation. Workers in these industries who were exposed to asbestos in the past may still be at risk of developing mesothelioma today.

Mesothelioma Treatment Centers in Maryland

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Maryland, it’s important to seek out a healthcare provider with experience in treating this rare cancer. Fortunately, there are several top-tier mesothelioma treatment centers located right here in Maryland, including:

• The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
• The University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center
• National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Mesothelioma FAQs

1. Is mesothelioma always caused by asbestos exposure?

While asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma, there are rare cases where the cancer is caused by other factors, such as radiation or a genetic mutation.

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

Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. This is why it’s often referred to as a “silent killer” – symptoms may not appear until decades later.

3. Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, there are several innovative treatments available that can help to improve quality of life and extend survival, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

4. How can I protect myself from asbestos exposure?

If you work in an industry that is at risk for asbestos exposure, it’s important to follow proper safety protocols and wear protective gear. If you suspect that you may have been exposed to asbestos in the past, talk to your doctor about screening options.

5. How much compensation can I receive for a mesothelioma lawsuit?

The amount of compensation you may receive in a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary widely depending on factors such as the severity of your illness, the length of your asbestos exposure, and the specific circumstances of your case.

6. What are some common misconceptions about mesothelioma?

Some common misconceptions about mesothelioma include that it’s always caused by smoking (it’s not), only affects older people (it can affect people of any age), and is always fatal (while it is a serious cancer, early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival rates).

7. How can I support someone with mesothelioma?

If someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are several ways you can offer support – from simply listening and providing emotional support to helping with practical tasks like meal prep or errands. It’s also important to respect their wishes and autonomy when it comes to treatment decisions.

Take Action: Protect Yourself from Mesothelioma in Maryland

We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of mesothelioma and the risks associated with asbestos exposure in Maryland. Remember, the best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma is to stay informed and take action when it comes to your health.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, we encourage you to seek out a healthcare provider with experience in treating this rare cancer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for the best possible care.

Closing & Disclaimer

We want to stress that 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. If you have any concerns about your health or exposure to asbestos, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.

The content provided here is based on current research and best practices, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. We also cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from the use of this information.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and stay safe out there.