Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Most commonly, mesothelioma develops on the lung linings and abdomen. The rare cancer can also develop in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or the testes.
Asbestos is a major mesothelioma-related risk factor. Certain mesothelioma patients have no previous history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was once used in construction and industrial products across the globe. Workers working in asbestos-related industries were exposed asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, these fibers that have been trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos can also be breathed in or consumed, and the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases with the length and quantity of exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases are the result of occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in many trades, including construction, insulation and electrical work, as well as automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally heavily populated by males and, as a result, male mesothelioma cases account for 75-80% of all reported cases. The elimination of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations has reduced on-the-job contamination. This has resulted in a shift of cases and asbestos exposure outside of the workplace becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can develop when asbestos is released from the workplace environment or is found in the school or home environment. Exposure to asbestos from the outside can cause it, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothing of an asbestos worker. Those who experience this type of exposure may experience symptoms like breathlessness or chest pain that is often mistaken as lung or heart problems.
Some studies have linked non-occupational exposure to mesothelioma, however the results are inconsistent. These studies were conducted with a only a few participants, and the variability between studies was quite high. More research is needed to confirm the links between mesothelioma and exposure to non-occupational substances.
Those who have been exposed to asbestos in non-occupational settings should speak to their doctor regarding their asbestos background. If they are concerned, they should ask for mesothelioma screening and a referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists are able to provide patients with the best care and treatment options to improve their chances of survival. They will analyze medical records and perform imaging tests to diagnose mesothelioma. They will also offer advice on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to get compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma not the only way to develop this cancer. There is evidence that those who haven't been exposed to asbestos or worked in industries with asbestos-related work can still develop mesothelioma. This is known as secondary asbestos exposure, or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to clothing, hair skin, and other surfaces. In the end, workers may bring the harmful fibers home with them on their work clothes and transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be swallowed or inhaled, leading to mesothelioma.
The mesothelioma type is more prevalent in women, and typically occurs in the lungs. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The breath shortness is the most frequent indication. It can be caused by a variety of other symptoms, such as lung fluid and swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs is called mesothelioma of the pleural region. Mesothelioma that affects the chest wall, stomach, or is called peritoneal mesothelioma. People suffering from this kind of mesothelioma may experience a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, breathing problems and constipation.
Several studies have reported that people with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos may get mesothelioma because of secondhand exposure to the harmful fibers. Most often, these people were living with someone who was exposed to the dangerous material. They could have touched the clothing of the asbestos worker or had other contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma as a result of the extensive asbestos use in military bases, ships and vehicles. The Navy is especially at risk due to asbestos being used to protect the hull of the ship as well as to protect gun turrets. Additionally, sailors often brought asbestos home from work on vessels that were contaminated with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of substances have been associated with mesothelioma. The disease is still most often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally was used in the manufacturing process for many years. The mineral is heat resistant and strong, making it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. When asbestos is broken, it creates dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the lungs or stomach for years, and trigger mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequently reported mesothelioma symptoms are breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, and chest pain. Asbestos sufferers may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their initial exposure. It is essential to consult a doctor when you experience these symptoms. It is also important to tell your doctor about your past history of asbestos. This can help prevent an incorrect diagnosis and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment.
Mesothelioma resulting from exposure to asbestos is the most prevalent in people who work directly with asbestos however, it can also affect loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or ingest asbestos fibers from a worker's clothing, shoes or even tools. They could also be brought to home by someone who is wearing or having their hair. It is for this reason that mesothelioma sufferers and their families should wash their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is rio rancho asbestos lawsuit of research demonstrating an association between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there are no definitive conclusions about the role of other agents. There is evidence to suggest that the zeolites, namely erionite and chlorosotile which can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks in certain areas of Turkey, where pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
The study on the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma continues. Funnel plots indicate the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant degree of variability between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells which grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body by traversing the lymphatic system or bloodstream and affecting other organs. Asbestos is the main cause, but it's not the only cause. The condition may be triggered by other genetic and environmental factors.
In some cases mesothelioma is seen in people who were not exposed to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They usually had an indirect exposure due to the handling of contaminated clothes or home items by an asbestos-exposed person within their household. For example, it is possible for someone to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma due to the exposure to asbestos fibers in a loved one's clothing. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma cases tend to have longer latency times and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than husbands.
Scientists are currently studying the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition could play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that the mutation of a gene called BAP1 can increase the risk of mesothelioma in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This finding is important because it could lead to improved screening methods for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of genes are linked to mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma and suppress tumor growth. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2), and NF2.
A family history of the disease increases the risk. Certain genes, like BAP1, for instance, BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Asbestos was extensively used in the military for a number of years and veterans suffer from the highest mesothelioma rates compared to other occupational groups. The people who served on ships or in the Navy were at the highest risk due to asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation, and fireproofing materials.