There are experts that have speculated on
other causes. There are incidences of Mesothelioma with no known
asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is not a lung cancer. Smoking does not
cause it. It is a cancer of the mesothelial cells.
The only known, established cause of
Mesothelioma is asbestos. The asbestos fibers are breathed in, travel
through the lung and become lodged in the pleura, the thin, saran
wrap-type membrane that lines that encases the lung. The pleura,
produces a special lubricating fluid that facilitates the ability of
the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing. The process of
irritation from the infiltration of the asbestos fibers creates changes
in the cells, which causes the Mesothelioma. This is known as pleural
Mesothelioma. Less common is peritoneal Mesothelioma, which is a cancer
of the membrane that encompasses the lining of the abdomen.
An individual with Mesothelioma experiences
chest pain usually caused by a build-up of fluid in the pleural space
called an effusion and shortness of breath. Since many doctors may not
have expertise in the area of asbestos-related diseases, these symptoms
are often believed, at first, to be attributable to other medical
problems. A biopsy of the pleural tissue or fluid may reveal the cancer
of the mesothelial cells 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, low level exposures may be enough to cause Mesothelioma.
Occurrence Of
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer and its
incidence is actually increasing day by day. There is presently no
known cure for Mesothelioma. As the disease progresses, the cancerous
cells harden the pleura and spread. As time passes, breathing, sleeping
and eating become more difficult and eventually it becomes increasingly
more challenging for the victim to engage in normal activities and
enjoy life.
Treatments of
Mesothelioma
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.
Prevention Is
Better Than Cure
Mesothelioma is a preventable disease. Many
of the corporations 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.
To Sum Up
The varied and non-specific symptoms
associated with Mesothelioma, can delay detection and diagnosis The
cancer 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 .The onset of symptoms can take up to fifty years
or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested the
lifespan of the person can be as short as several months. So, if you or
a loved one is 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.
