Who Gets Mesothelioma? The Facts You Need to Know

Welcome to our article on who gets mesothelioma. This devastating cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. Unfortunately, mesothelioma can take decades to develop, which means that many people who were exposed to asbestos in the past are still at risk today. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at who is most likely to develop mesothelioma, how it is diagnosed and treated, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a thin membrane that lines the chest and abdomen. In most cases, mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, although it can also be caused by exposure to other minerals or by radiation. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage, which makes it difficult to treat.

How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose mesothelioma, including imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans, biopsies, and blood tests. However, because mesothelioma is so rare, it can be difficult to diagnose, and many people may not even realize they have the disease until it has reached an advanced stage.

How is Mesothelioma Treated?

The treatment for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease and the age and overall health of the patient. Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, as well as palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Who Gets Mesothelioma?

There are several factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma, including:

Exposure to Asbestos

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, which was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. Workers who were exposed to asbestos on the job, as well as family members who were exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on the worker’s clothing, are at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma.

Age

Mesothelioma is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 65, although it can develop in younger people as well.

Gender

Men are much more likely to develop mesothelioma than women, which is likely due to the fact that men were more likely to work in industries where asbestos exposure was common.

Race

Although mesothelioma can affect people of all races, it is most commonly diagnosed in white people.

Genetics

Some studies have suggested that certain genetic mutations may increase a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma, although more research is needed in this area.

Other Risk Factors

Other factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma include smoking, exposure to other minerals such as erionite and zeolite, and exposure to radiation.

Mesothelioma Table

Factor	Risk Level
Exposure to Asbestos	High
Age	Medium
Gender	High
Race	Medium
Genetics	Low
Smoking	Low
Exposure to Other Minerals	Low
Exposure to Radiation	Low

Mesothelioma FAQs

1. What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss. However, these symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions, which is why mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose.

2. How is Mesothelioma Treated?

The treatment for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease and the age and overall health of the patient. Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

3. Is Mesothelioma Always Caused by Asbestos?

No, mesothelioma can also be caused by exposure to other minerals or by radiation. However, asbestos exposure is by far the most common cause of mesothelioma.

4. How Long Does It Take for Mesothelioma to Develop?

Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after a person is exposed to asbestos.

5. Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma?

People who were exposed to asbestos on the job, as well as family members who were exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on the worker’s clothing, are at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma.

6. Can Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos exposure is a risk, be sure to follow all safety procedures and wear protective clothing and equipment.

7. What Should I Do If I Think I Have Mesothelioma?

If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos in the past, be sure to talk to your doctor right away. Early diagnosis is key to treating mesothelioma successfully.

8. What is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma?

The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the age and overall health of the patient, and the type of treatment that is used. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage, which makes it difficult to treat.

9. How Common is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, with only about 3,000 cases diagnosed each year in the United States.

10. Is Mesothelioma Contagious?

No, mesothelioma is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

11. Can Mesothelioma Be Inherited?

Some studies have suggested that certain genetic mutations may increase a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma, but more research is needed in this area.

12. How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose mesothelioma, including imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans, biopsies, and blood tests.

13. What Are the Long-Term Effects of Mesothelioma?

The long-term effects of mesothelioma can include pain, difficulty breathing, and decreased quality of life. In some cases, mesothelioma can also lead to other health problems such as heart disease and respiratory failure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer that can be caused by exposure to asbestos, as well as other minerals and radiation. Although mesothelioma is rare, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat, which makes it important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from exposure to asbestos. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past or are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, be sure to talk to your doctor right away.

Our hope is that this article has provided you with the information you need to understand who is most at risk for mesothelioma, how it is diagnosed and treated, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.