The Deadly Asbestos Connection: Malignant Mesothelioma in Australia 2015
Greetings, dear reader! We are here to discuss a very important and pressing issue that concerns each and every one of us. Mesothelioma, a rare and deadly cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, is on the rise in Australia. The situation is grave, and it requires our immediate attention and action. But before we delve into the details, let us first understand what malignant mesothelioma is and how it affects our body.
What Is Malignant Mesothelioma?
Malignant 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 heavily used in construction and manufacturing industries until the late 20th century. When inhaled, asbestos fibers get trapped in the lining of the organs and cause inflammation, scarring, and genetic damage that eventually lead to cancer.
Mesothelioma is a rare disease, but its incidence is increasing worldwide due to the long latency period between asbestos exposure and cancer development. It can take up to 40 years or more for symptoms to appear, making it difficult to diagnose and treat in its early stages. Unfortunately, most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed at an advanced stage when the prognosis is poor.
What Are the Symptoms of Malignant Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of malignant mesothelioma depend on the location of the cancer and its stage. Common signs and symptoms include:
| Location | Signs and Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Lungs (pleural mesothelioma) | Chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss, fever, difficulty swallowing |
| Heart (pericardial mesothelioma) | Chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, fever |
| Abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) | Abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, weight loss, fever |
What Is the Current Incidence of Malignant Mesothelioma in Australia?
Australia has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world due to its extensive use of asbestos in the past. According to the latest statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), there were 699 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in 2015, and this number is expected to rise in the coming years.
What Are the Asbestos Exposure Trends in Australia?
The use of asbestos in Australia was banned in 2003, but the legacy of its past use is still present in many buildings, products, and workplaces. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in many homes, schools, hospitals, and public buildings, posing a risk of exposure to workers and the general public. The AIHW reports that around one-third of all mesothelioma cases in Australia occur in people who have never worked directly with asbestos but have been exposed to it through environmental or household sources.
Why Is Asbestos Still a Threat in Australia?
Asbestos is a durable, fire-resistant, and cheap material that was widely used in the past for insulation, roofing, flooring, and other applications. While its benefits were known, its health risks were often ignored or downplayed by the companies that produced and used it. As a result, millions of people around the world have been exposed to asbestos and continue to be at risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. In Australia, the issue is particularly acute due to the high rates of asbestos use and the long latency period of mesothelioma.
What Is Being Done to Address the Asbestos Problem in Australia?
The Australian government has established a National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Awareness and Management to address the ongoing risk of asbestos exposure and to provide support for affected individuals and communities. The plan includes measures such as:
- Implementing best-practice asbestos management in all government buildings
- Providing information and training for workers, businesses, and the public about the risks of asbestos and how to manage it safely
- Improving the regulation and enforcement of asbestos-related laws and standards
- Providing compensation and support services for people affected by asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself and Your Family?
If you live or work in a building that was built before 2003, it may contain asbestos. To protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos, you should:
- Be aware of the risks of asbestos and how to identify it
- Avoid disturbing or damaging any materials that may contain asbestos
- Ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are removed or managed safely by a licensed professional
- Wear protective gear, such as a mask and gloves, when working with or near materials that may contain asbestos
FAQs About Malignant Mesothelioma in Australia 2015
Q1. What Is the Survival Rate for Mesothelioma?
The survival rate for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the age and overall health of the patient, and the type of treatment used. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed at a late stage when it is difficult to treat, and the prognosis is poor. The average survival rate for mesothelioma is around 12-21 months, but some patients may live for several years with appropriate treatment.
Q2. Is Mesothelioma a Curable Disease?
Mesothelioma is currently not curable, but it can be managed and treated to improve the quality and length of life of affected individuals. The treatments for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the stage and location of the cancer and the health of the patient. Palliative care can also help alleviate the symptoms and improve the comfort and well-being of patients and their families.
Q3. Who Is at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
People who have been exposed to asbestos are at risk of developing mesothelioma, regardless of their age, gender, or health status. The risk of mesothelioma increases with the duration and intensity of asbestos exposure, as well as the type and size of asbestos fibers inhaled or ingested. Workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, mining, and shipbuilding are at a higher risk of exposure to asbestos, but anyone who has come into contact with asbestos fibers can develop mesothelioma.
Q4. Can I Get Mesothelioma by Secondhand Exposure to Asbestos?
Yes, secondhand exposure to asbestos can also cause mesothelioma. This can happen if a person comes into contact with asbestos fibers that were brought home on the clothes, hair, or skin of someone who works with asbestos. Family members of workers in high-risk industries are particularly vulnerable to secondhand exposure to asbestos, as are people who live near asbestos mines or factories.
Q5. How Can I Get Tested for Mesothelioma?
If you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos or have symptoms of mesothelioma, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may perform a physical examination, ask about your medical history and work history, and order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or biopsies to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to be honest and thorough in providing information about your exposure to asbestos, as this can help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Q6. Can I File a Lawsuit for Mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the companies that produced or used asbestos products. This can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by mesothelioma. It is important to consult with an experienced meso
thelioma lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the maximum compensation possible.
Q7. What Can I Do to Raise Awareness About Mesothelioma?
There are several things you can do to raise awareness about mesothelioma and the dangers of asbestos:
- Share information and resources about mesothelioma and asbestos with your friends, family, and community
- Participate in fundraising events or advocacy campaigns for mesothelioma research and support
- Contact your elected representatives and urge them to support initiatives that address the asbestos problem in Australia and around the world
- Join or support organizations that provide services and support for mesothelioma patients and their families, such as the Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia
Conclusion
Malignant mesothelioma is a deadly disease that is caused by exposure to asbestos, a hazardous material that was extensively used in Australia and other countries. The current incidence of mesothelioma in Australia is high, and the asbestos exposure trends are still a cause for concern. It is important to raise awareness about mesothelioma and the dangers of asbestos, and to take action to prevent further exposure and support affected individuals and communities.
By following the guidelines for asbestos management and safe exposure prevention, we can make a difference in the fight against mesothelioma. Let us join hands and work towards a safer and healthier future for all.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis. If you have been exposed to asbestos or have symptoms of mesothelioma, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. The author and the publisher of this article are not responsible for any damages or losses resulting from the use or reliance on the information provided herein.
