Interesting Facts About Malignant Mesothelioma

Greetings to all our readers! Today, we would like to discuss a topic that is not commonly discussed, but is of utmost importance, especially to those who work in industries which have asbestos as a component.

Asbestos is a material that has been used widely in the past, particularly in construction and manufacturing, due to its durability and fire-resistant qualities. However, it has been found to be a primary cause of malignant mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. In this article, we will discuss some interesting facts about malignant mesothelioma that you may not know about.

Fact 1: Mesothelioma has a long latency period

One of the facts that make mesothelioma particularly dangerous is its long latency period. It can take anywhere between 20 to 50 years for symptoms to manifest, making it difficult to diagnose and treat effectively. This prolonged latency period is due to the fact that asbestos fibers accumulate in the body over time, eventually damaging the tissue and causing cancer.

The Symptoms

The symptoms of malignant mesothelioma can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma that a person has. Some of the common symptoms include:

Type of Mesothelioma	Symptoms
Pleural	Chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss
Peritoneal	Abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting, weight loss
Pericardial	Chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue

Fact 2: Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos

As stated earlier, asbestos is the primary cause of malignant mesothelioma. The fibers of asbestos are inhaled or ingested, where they accumulate over time, causing damage to cells and leading to cancer. The exposure to asbestos can occur in various settings, including the workplace, home, or even in the environment.

Fact 3: Mesothelioma is rare, but not unheard of

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, with approximately 3,000 cases being reported in the United States annually. However, it is not unheard of, as it is estimated that over 2 million people have been exposed to asbestos in the United States alone.

Fact 4: There is no cure for mesothelioma

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for malignant mesothelioma. However, treatments are available and can help improve the quality of life of the patient. The treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

Fact 5: Some individuals are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma

While anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma, certain individuals are at a higher risk. This includes those who work in industries that use asbestos, such as construction workers, firefighters, and shipyard workers. Additionally, family members of those who work with asbestos can also be at risk of developing mesothelioma due to second-hand exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can mesothelioma be passed down genetically?

A: No, mesothelioma is not a hereditary disease. It is caused by exposure to asbestos.

Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?

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

Q: How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

A: Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exam, imaging tests, and biopsy.

Q: What is the average life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma?

A: The life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the cancer and the treatments received. On average, the life expectancy is 12 to 21 months.

Q: Is mesothelioma contagious?

A: No, mesothelioma is not contagious.

Q: Can smoking cause mesothelioma?

A: No, smoking does not cause mesothelioma. However, it can increase the risk of developing other types of cancer.

Q: Can mesothelioma be treated with alternative medicine?

A: While some individuals may choose to use alternative medicine in conjunction with traditional treatments, there is no evidence that alternative medicine can cure mesothelioma on its own.

Conclusion

In conclusion, malignant mesothelioma is a dangerous type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. While it is rare, it is not unheard of, and certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing it. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, but treatments are available to help improve the quality of life of the patient. It is important to be aware of the symptoms associated with mesothelioma and to avoid exposure to asbestos whenever possible.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, it may be beneficial to speak with a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases to determine if you are eligible for compensation from the companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos.

Closing/Disclaimer

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. It is important to note that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a medical professional if you have any concerns regarding your health.