Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of the time, mesothelioma is found on the lung linings and abdomen. This rare cancer can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium).
Asbestos is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some people diagnosed with mesothelioma don't have an asbestos-related history.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a rock of natural origin was used in the past for construction and industrial products around the world. Workers in asbestos-related industries were exposed to asbestos every day. Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, which can lead to progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. Over time, these fibers trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos can also be inhaled or eaten, and the risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases depending on the duration and amount of exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases result from occupational exposure. Asbestos was employed in many trades, including construction, insulation and electrical work, as well as automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These professions are usually dominated by men, and as a result mesothelioma cases involving males account for 75-80% of all reported cases. The phase-out of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations has reduced on-the-job contamination. This has resulted in 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. It can also be caused by secondhand exposure, such as when a family member handles the clothes of an asbestos worker who has been exposed. Those who experience this type of exposure may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, which is often mistaken as heart or lung conditions.
Some studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposure, however the results differ. A majority of these studies have been conducted on a small sample size, and within-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. More research is needed to confirm the links between mesothelioma and exposure to non-occupational substances.
People who have experienced non-occupational asbestos exposure should speak to their doctor regarding their asbestos-related background. If they are concerned, they should seek for a mesothelioma examination and referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the most effective treatment and care options to improve their odds of survival. They will analyze medical records, and perform imaging tests to diagnose the disease. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to obtain compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to develop this cancer. In fact, there is some evidence that people can get mesothelioma even though they never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry with asbestos-related activities. This is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure, or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to hair, clothing and skin. Workers may carry harmful fibers in their work clothing at home and then transmit them to family members. These asbestos fibers could cause mesothelioma if they are inhaled or ingestion.
This type of mesothelioma is more prevalent in women, and typically occurs in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The breath shortness is the most common indication. It is often caused by a variety of other symptoms, including fluid in the lungs and swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is called mesothelioma of the pleural region. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall, stomach, or is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a number of symptoms including abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing, and constipation.
According to several studies, people who haven't been exposed to asbestos in the workplace can still develop mesothelioma due to exposure through secondhand sources. Typically, these individuals have lived with someone who was exposed to the hazardous material. They could have touched the clothing of the asbestos worker or had another contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma as asbestos was widely used in military bases vessels, vehicles and bases. The Navy is at a higher risk due to asbestos being used in the hull and gun turrets on ships to guard them from fire. Additionally, sailors often brought home asbestos from their jobs on vessels that were contaminated with the substance.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been linked to mesothelioma. The disease is still most often associated with asbestos exposure. mesothelioma asbestos lung cancer , a naturally occurring mineral, was used in manufacturing for many years. It is a heat-resistant material and tough which makes it suitable for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles, and other products. When asbestos is broken down it releases dust which can be inhaled or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can remain in the lungs and stomach for a long time, triggering mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most common symptoms of mesothelioma are chest pain as well as abdominal discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos patients may experience these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their first exposure. Symptoms can be mistaken for other illnesses, so it is important to see an expert if you experience these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is important. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the correct treatment.
Mesothelioma that is caused by exposure to asbestos is most common in people who worked directly with asbestos However, it is also able to affect loved ones of those exposed. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or ingest asbestos fibers from a worker's clothing, shoes or other tools. They could be exposed to the particles on their hair or clothing. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families should always be sure to clean their clothing after working with asbestos.
There is a substantial body of literature showing a link between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there is no definitive conclusions about the impact of other agents. There is evidence to suggest that chlorosotile and erionite zeolites which can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks in some parts of Turkey, where mesothelioma occurrence rates are high.
The research on the connection between mesothelioma and exposure to nonasbestos is continuing. Funnel plots show the possibility of bias in publications and there is a large level of heterogeneity between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the biggest risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
The mesothelioma-related rare disease occurs when malignant cells of the mesothelium expand uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body via the lymphatic or blood system, and affect other organs. Asbestos is the most common reason, but it's not the sole cause. The condition may also be triggered by other environmental and genetic factors.
Some mesothelioma cases have occurred in people who didn't directly expose themselves to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational victims of mesothelioma. They typically experienced indirect exposure through the handling of contaminated clothing or home items handled by an asbestos-exposed person within their household. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after inhaling asbestos fibers from clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that this kind of mesothelioma is more likely to have longer time to develop and is more likely to be found in women than males.
Scientists are studying the possibility that mesothelioma-related genetic predispositions could be a factor in its development. Recent studies have revealed that the mutation of BAP1 genes increases the risk of mesothelioma developing among asbestos-exposed people. This finding is significant as it could lead improved screening methods for those who are at high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered a number genes that are associated with mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in reducing the growth of tumors and are frequently mutated or altered in mesothelioma sufferers. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
A family history of the disease increases the risk. Certain genes, like BAP1 BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Asbestos was a common ingredient in the military for many years, and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate when compared to other occupational categories. The people who served on ships or in the Navy were at greatest risk because of asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation and fireproofing materials.