Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Most commonly, mesothelioma develops on the linings of the lungs and abdomen. This rare cancer also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. Certain mesothelioma patients have no history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was previously used in construction and industrial products across the globe. Workers in asbestos industries handled the mineral on a regular basis, putting them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. Over time the fibers that are trapped can cause mesothelioma as well. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled, ingested or even absorbed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases when exposed.
Most cases of mesothelioma are the result of occupational exposure. Asbestos was utilized in a variety of trades, including construction insulation and electrical work, as well as automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally predominantly male-dominated, and as a result mesothelioma cases involving males make up 75-80 percent of all cases reported. The phase-out of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations, has reduced occupational contamination. This has caused an increase in cases, with non-occupational exposure becoming more prevalent.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released at the workplace, or is found at home or in schools. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothing of an asbestos worker. This type of exposure can cause symptoms like chest pain or a shortness of breathe, which are often mistaken for heart conditions or lung diseases.
Some studies have linked mesothelioma to non-occupational exposures, but the results are different. These studies were conducted with a a small number of participants, and the degree of heterogeneity between studies was high. Further research is needed to establish the connection between mesothelioma and exposure to non-occupational substances.
Those who have been exposed to asbestos in non-occupational settings should speak with their doctor regarding their asbestos background. They should have mesothelioma screening when they are concerned, and ask for a referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists can offer patients the best care and treatment options to improve their prognosis. They will review medical records, and perform imaging tests to determine the disease. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to get compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to get this cancer. There is evidence that people who have never handled asbestos or worked in industries with asbestos-related work can still develop mesothelioma. This is known as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are tiny and can stick to clothing, hair and skin. Workers may carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be inhaled or swallowed, leading to mesothelioma.
This type of mesothelioma occurs more frequently in women and usually in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs, or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is referred to as pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma refers to the name for mesothelioma that affects the stomach wall or the chest wall. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a variety of symptoms including abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that even those who have no prior previous history of exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma due to secondhand exposure to the harmful fibers. Typically, these individuals have been living with someone who was exposed to the dangerous material. They might have handled the garments of the worker, or they might have had other exposure to asbestos.
Veterans are at a greater chance of developing mesothelioma as asbestos was extensively used in military bases, vehicles and ships. The Navy is especially at risk since asbestos was used to insulate the hull of the ship, as well as to fireproof gun turrets. Asbestos was also often brought home by sailors from their work on ships that were infected with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been associated with mesothelioma. The disease is still most often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that was used for many years in manufacturing. It is resistant to heat and strong, making it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. Asbestos is broken down into dust, which can be inhaled and swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the stomach or lungs for years, and trigger mesothelioma symptoms.
indiana asbestos lawyer mesothelioma-related symptoms are breathing difficulties, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to persist for up to 60 years. It is crucial to speak with your doctor if you notice these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is important. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the right treatment.
Mesothelioma related to exposure to asbestos is the most prevalent in people who work directly with asbestos, but it can also be a problem for loved people who were exposed. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members may inhale or swallow asbestos fibers from a worker's clothing, shoes or even tools. These particles can also be brought home by someone who is wearing or having hair. It is for this reason that mesothelioma sufferers and their families must wash their clothes in a clean manner after working with asbestos.
There is a large body of literature that shows a relationship between nonasbestos exposure and mesothelioma. However, there are no definitive conclusions yet about the role of other agents. For example, there is some evidence that the zeolites erionite and chlorosotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks from certain regions in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma pleural is high.
The research on the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is ongoing. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of bias in publications and there is a high level of heterogeneity between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor.
Genetics
The mesothelioma rare disease is a condition in which malignant cells of the mesothelium grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body via the blood or lymphatic system, and affect other organs. Asbestos is the main cause, but it is not the only cause. The condition could be caused by other environmental and genetic factors.
Some cases of mesothelioma have been seen in people who did not directly expose themselves to asbestos. These are referred to as mesothelioma victims who are not employed. They were usually exposed indirectly through the handling hazardous household items or clothing by someone who was exposed to asbestos in their home. For instance, it is possible for someone to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma based on the inhalation of asbestos fibers from clothing belonging to a loved one. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer periods of latency and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition might play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that the mutation of BAP1 genes increases the risk of mesothelioma among asbestos-exposed individuals. This finding is especially important because it could lead to improved screening procedures for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a number of genes are linked to mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in limiting the growth of tumors and are frequently mutated or altered in mesothelioma sufferers. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2), and NF2.
People who have mesothelioma in their family are at a higher chance of contracting the disease. Some genes, such as the BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma when compared to other occupational categories due to asbestos being used extensively in the military. Those who served in the Navy and on ships specifically were at greatest risk because of the extensive exposure to asbestos in insulation, fireproofing materials and shipbuilding.