Mesothelioma: The cancer caused by asbestos exposure

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelial cells. It is usually caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos. The asbestos fibers are inhaled through the lungs and become lodged in the pleura, the thin membrane that encases the lung. The irritation from the invasion of the asbestos fibers modifes the cell structure, which causes the Mesothelioma. This is known as pleural Mesothelioma.
Another type of Mesothelioma is peritoneal Mesothelioma, which is a cancer of the membrane that lines the abdomen. A person with Mesothelioma can experience chest pain, often caused by a collection of fluid in the lungs and shortness of breath. Since many doctors don't have expertise in the area of asbestos-related diseases, these symptoms are often believed, at first, to be attributable to other medical problems, such as pneumonia. A biopsy may reveal the Mesothelioma and a proper diagnosis can thus be established. A history of the individual's occupational exposure shall be taken.

Since there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos, even brief exposure may be enough to cause Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer and there is presently no known cure for Mesothelioma. As the disease progresses, the diseased cells harden the pleura and spread. As time passes, such normal activities as breathing, sleeping and eating become more difficult. As time passes, it becomes extremely hard for the victim to engage in every-day activities and enjoy life. A number of treatments have been established to help contain the spread of the disease and reduce the pain associated with it. Chemotherapy, radiation and radical surgery to remove the lung and pleura are among the options that have been explored by the treating physician.

Mesothelioma is a preventable disease. Many of the companies that manufacture and make profit from the sale of asbestos-containing products are aware of the hazards of asbestos. Alternative fibers are available that could be used instead of asbestos. But asbestos is cheap, and available, and is a good filler and binder. Mesothelioma has a very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty years or more before the person even realizes that they have contracted the cancer. Symptom onset can take up to fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested, the life expectancy of the person can be as short as several months. So, if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Make sure that your physician is aware of any previous asbestos exposure, and occupational risk factors.