2017 Firefighter Mesothelioma: Understanding the Risks and Causes

As a firefighter, you risk your life every day to keep your community safe. Unfortunately, your job comes with potential hazards, including exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by asbestos, is a serious risk for firefighters. In this article, we will explore the dangers of mesothelioma and what you can do to protect yourself.

The Dangers of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the 1980s. Unfortunately, asbestos was also used in many buildings that firefighters respond to, putting them at risk of exposure.

What makes mesothelioma so dangerous is that it can take decades for symptoms to appear. This means that firefighters who were exposed to asbestos years ago may only now be experiencing symptoms. By this time, the cancer may have already progressed to an advanced stage, making it difficult to treat.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma are often vague and can be mistaken for other illnesses. They may include:

Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Coughing
Fever
Fatigue
Weight loss
Sweating

How Mesothelioma is Diagnosed

If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, your doctor may order an X-ray, CT scan, or biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to tell your doctor about your exposure to asbestos, especially if you have worked as a firefighter.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in its later stages, making it difficult to treat.

Protecting Yourself from Mesothelioma

The best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma is to prevent exposure to asbestos. As a firefighter, this can be difficult, as many older buildings may contain asbestos. However, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk:

Wear Protective Gear

When responding to a fire, always wear proper protective gear, including a respirator. This will help prevent inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Shower and Change Clothes

After fighting a fire, be sure to shower and change your clothes before going home. This will prevent any asbestos fibers from being brought into your home.

Get Regular Check-Ups

If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to get regular check-ups to monitor your health. This can help catch mesothelioma in its early stages, when it is more treatable.

FAQs

What is the link between firefighters and mesothelioma?

Firefighters are at an increased risk of mesothelioma due to their exposure to asbestos-containing materials. Many older buildings and homes contain asbestos, and when these structures catch fire, the asbestos fibers are released into the air.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma may include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fever, fatigue, weight loss and sweating.

Can mesothelioma be treated?

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments.

How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is diagnosed through X-rays, CT scans or biopsies. It is important to tell your doctor about your exposure to asbestos, especially if you have worked as a firefighter.

What is the best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma?

The best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma is to prevent exposure to asbestos. Wear proper protective gear, including a respirator, shower and change your clothes after fighting a fire, and get regular check-ups if you have been exposed to asbestos.

What is the outlook for someone diagnosed with mesothelioma?

The outlook for someone diagnosed with mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in its later stages, making it difficult to treat.

What should I do if I think I have been exposed to asbestos?

If you think you have been exposed to asbestos, talk to your doctor. They can perform tests to determine if you have been exposed and monitor your health for any signs of mesothelioma.

Are there any laws or regulations regarding asbestos exposure?

Yes, there are laws and regulations regarding asbestos exposure. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards in place to protect workers from asbestos exposure, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has regulations for the safe handling and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.

What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek out a specialist who has experience treating this type of cancer. You may also want to consider joining a support group to connect with others who are going through a similar experience.

Can mesothelioma be prevented?

Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. This means wearing proper protective gear, showering and changing clothes after fighting a fire, and avoiding materials that are known to contain asbestos.

What should I do if I think my workplace contains asbestos?

If you believe your workplace contains asbestos, you should report it to your employer or supervisor. They are responsible for ensuring that employees are not exposed to asbestos and may bring in a professional to remove it.

What is the average life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma?

The average life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it is in its later stages, which can make it more difficult to treat.

Is mesothelioma contagious?

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

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a serious risk for firefighters, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. By wearing proper protective gear, showering and changing your clothes after fighting a fire, and getting regular check-ups, you can minimize your risk of developing mesothelioma. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek out a specialist and connect with others who are going through a similar experience. Together, we can raise awareness about the dangers of mesothelioma and work to prevent it.

Closing 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.