An Introduction to Mesothelioma Terry Crews
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Mesothelioma Terry Crews. If you’re here, it’s either you’re a fan of Terry Crews or someone who wants to know more about mesothelioma, the deadly disease he battled. Whichever the case, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explain what mesothelioma is, how Terry Crews got diagnosed, and how he battled the disease. We’ll also provide you with everything you need to know about mesothelioma, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention measures. So, stay tuned!
Who is Terry Crews?
Terry Crews is a well-known American actor, comedian, activist, and former professional football player. He’s popularly known for his roles in movies such as “White Chicks,” “The Expendables,” and “Deadpool 2,” and TV shows such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “America’s Got Talent.” Besides his acting career, Terry is also a former NFL player who played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Rams, San Diego Chargers, and Washington Redskins.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are protective linings that cover the body’s internal organs. It’s caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, mining, and manufacturing industries until the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they become lodged in the mesothelial cells, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this leads to the development of cancerous tumors.
How did Terry Crews Get Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
In 2014, Terry Crews revealed that he had been diagnosed with mesothelioma, which he attributed to his exposure to asbestos while working as a furniture mover in the 1980s. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Terry said that he had unknowingly handled materials containing asbestos, which he described as “white dust.” Over time, Terry developed symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain, which he initially attributed to his heavy weightlifting regimen. However, after a series of medical tests, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma.
How Did Terry Crews Battle Mesothelioma?
After his diagnosis, Terry Crews underwent surgery to remove the tumor and chemotherapy to kill off any remaining cancer cells. He also changed his lifestyle and adopted a healthy diet and exercise regimen to boost his immune system and fight off the disease. Terry has been cancer-free since his treatment and has become an advocate for mesothelioma awareness, speaking out about the dangers of asbestos exposure and advocating for stricter regulation of asbestos-containing products.
Mesothelioma Terry Crews Explained
The Causes of Mesothelioma
As we mentioned earlier, mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. This mineral was widely used in the construction, mining, and manufacturing industries due to its heat-resistant properties. However, the use of asbestos was banned in the 1980s after it was discovered that it’s highly carcinogenic and can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. Despite the ban, asbestos-containing products still exist in many homes and buildings, putting people at risk of exposure.
The Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can take several years to develop, usually between 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Some common symptoms of mesothelioma include:
| Symptoms of Mesothelioma | Description |
|---|---|
| Chest Pain | The patient experiences pain in the chest or lower back. |
| Shortness of Breath | The patient feels breathless or has difficulty breathing. |
| Coughing | The patient has a persistent cough or wheezing. |
| Fever and Night Sweats | The patient experiences unexplained fever and sweating at night. |
| Fatigue | The patient feels tired and weak all the time. |
| Weight Loss | The patient experiences rapid and unexplained weight loss. |
| Abdominal Pain and Swelling | The patient experiences pain and swelling in the abdomen. |
The Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
The diagnosis of mesothelioma usually involves several medical tests, including:
- Chest X-ray and CT scan, to check for abnormalities in the lungs and chest.
- PET scan, to detect the presence of cancerous cells in the body.
- Blood tests, to check for biomarkers that indicate the presence of cancer.
- Tissue biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis by examining a sample of tissue under a microscope.
The Treatment of Mesothelioma
The treatment of mesothelioma depends on several factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Some common treatment options for mesothelioma include:
- Surgery – to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
- Radiation therapy – to kill cancer cells through high-energy radiation.
- Chemotherapy – to kill cancer cells using drugs.
- Immunotherapy – to boost the immune system to fight cancer cells.
The Prevention of Mesothelioma
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that involves asbestos-containing products, always wear protective gear such as masks, gloves, and coveralls. If you’re renovating an older home or building, have it inspected for asbestos before starting any work. If you suspect that you’ve been exposed to asbestos, seek medical attention immediately.
Mesothelioma Terry Crews FAQs
What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?
The survival rate for mesothelioma depends on several factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. On average, the survival rate for mesothelioma is about 12-21 months after diagnosis, but some patients can live longer with proper treatment.
Is mesothelioma curable?
Mesothelioma is currently not curable, but it’s treatable. Early detection and treatment can improve the patient’s quality of life and increase their survival rate.
Can mesothelioma be caused by smoking?
No, mesothelioma is not caused by smoking. It’s caused by exposure to asbestos.
Can mesothelioma be passed down genetically?
No, mesothelioma is not passed down genetically. It’s caused by exposure to asbestos.
Is there a mesothelioma vaccine?
Currently, there is no vaccine for mesothelioma.
What are the different types of mesothelioma?
There are several types of mesothelioma, including:
- Pleural mesothelioma – affects the lining of the lungs.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma – affects the lining of the abdomen.
- Pericardial mesothelioma – affects the lining of the heart.
- Testicular mesothelioma – affects the lining of the testicles.
Can mesothelioma be caused by a one-time exposure to asbestos?
Yes, even a one-time exposure to high levels of asbestos can cause mesothelioma. However, the risk is higher with prolonged exposure.
Is mesothelioma only caused by asbestos?
Yes, mesothelioma is mainly caused by exposure to asbestos. However, there are rare cases where it’s caused by exposure to other minerals such as erionite and zeolite.
Is there financial assistance available for mesothelioma patients?
Yes, there are several financial assistance programs available for mesothelioma patients, such as workers’ compensation, veterans’ benefits, and mesothelioma trust funds.
What’s the difference between mesothelioma and lung cancer?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are protective linings that cover the body’s internal organs. On the other hand, lung cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lung tissue. Both cancers are caused by different factors and
require different treatments.
Can mesothelioma spread to other parts of the body?
Yes, mesothelioma can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, brain, and bones.
Is mesothelioma contagious?
No, mesothelioma is not contagious.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors include age, gender, and genetics.
What should I do if I suspect I’ve been exposed to asbestos?
If you suspect that you’ve been exposed to asbestos, seek medical attention immediately. You should also inform your employer or property owner about the possible exposure and have the area tested for asbestos.
How can I support mesothelioma research?
You can support mesothelioma research by donating to organizations that fund mesothelioma research, participating in clinical trials, or spreading awareness about the disease.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a deadly disease that affects thousands of people every year, including Terry Crews. However, with early detection and proper treatment, it’s possible to improve the patient’s quality of life and increase their survival rate. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable information about mesothelioma and Terry Crews’ battle with the disease. Remember, the best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. Stay safe!
Take Action Today
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you’re not alone. There are several resources available to help you and your family cope with the disease, such as support groups, financial assistance programs, and legal aid. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Disclaimer
The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
