Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of the time, mesothelioma is found on the lung linings and abdomen. This rare cancer also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes.
Asbestos is a major mesothelioma-related risk factor. However, some patients diagnosed with mesothelioma do not have any history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a rock of natural origin, was utilized in the past for industrial and construction products throughout the world. Workers in asbestos industries handled the substance on a regular basis which put them at risk of exposure. Asbestos particles can be stuck in the lungs where they cause progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. As time passes, the asbestos fibers that have been trapped in the lungs may cause mesothelioma. Asbestos can also be breathed in or consumed, and the risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases with the length and quantity of exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases stem from exposure to occupational toxins. Asbestos was employed in many trades, including construction, insulation, electrical work, automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These professions are usually dominated by men, and as a result mesothelioma-related cases of males make up 75-80 percent of all cases reported. The elimination of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations has reduced on-the-job contamination. This has led to a shift in the number of cases and asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings becoming more frequent.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released at the workplace, or is found at home or in schools. Exposure to asbestos from the outside can cause it, for example when a family member is exposed to the work clothes of a asbestos worker. People who are exposed to this kind of exposure may have symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, which is often mistaken for lung or heart problems.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposures, but the results are different. These studies were conducted with a small number of participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was substantial. Further research is required to establish the causality between non-occupational exposure and mesothelioma.
Those with non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos background with their physician. They should seek mesothelioma tests when they are concerned, and ask for a referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists are able to provide patients with the most effective treatment and care options to improve their chances of survival. They will review medical records and perform imaging tests to identify mesothelioma. They will also provide advice on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to receive compensation from an asbestos trust funds.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent mesothelioma cause. However, it is not the only one. There is evidence to suggest that people who have never had exposure to asbestos or worked in industries that have asbestos-related activities may still develop mesothelioma. This is referred to as secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and they can stick to hair, clothing skin, and other surfaces. Workers can carry harmful fibers in their work clothing at home, and then transmit them to family members. These asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if inhaled or ingested.
The mesothelioma type is more common in women, and typically occurs in the lung. However, it can also be found in the abdomen and the chest wall. Shortness of breath is the most common indication. It can be caused by a variety of other symptoms, including fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is a name that is used to describe mesothelioma, which occurs in the lungs. Mesothelioma that affects the chest wall or stomach is known as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. A person with this type of mesothelioma can be afflicted by a variety, including abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that people with no previous history of exposure to asbestos could develop mesothelioma as a result of secondhand exposure to the harmful fibers. In most cases, they have been living with someone who was exposed to the hazardous material. They may have touched the worker's clothing or been in contact with asbestos in other ways.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive use of asbestos in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is at a higher risk, as asbestos was used in the hull and gun turrets of ships to guard them from fire. Additionally, sailors often brought home asbestos from their jobs on ships that were contaminated by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been associated with mesothelioma. However, the condition is most often associated with exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral was used in the manufacturing process for a number of years. The mineral is resistant to heat and durable making it ideal for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles and other items. When asbestos is broken down it releases dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. These fibers can stay in the lungs and stomach for a long time, and trigger mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequent mesothelioma-related symptoms include breathing problems, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos sufferers might be suffering from these symptoms for up to 60 years or more following their initial exposure. The symptoms can be misinterpreted as other diseases, therefore it is essential to consult a doctor if you have these symptoms. Informing your doctor about asbestos exposure is essential. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the right treatment.
The most frequent mesothelioma victims from asbestos exposure are those who have been directly exposed to asbestos but it is possible for loved family members to be affected. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members could take in asbestos fibers that are present in a worker's clothing, shoes or even tools. These particles can also be brought home by someone wearing or having hair. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers as well as their families must always wash their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a substantial collection of studies that show a relationship between nonasbestos exposure and mesothelioma. However there is no conclusive evidence yet on the role of other agents. For instance there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chlorosotile may cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks in some parts of Turkey where mesothelioma occurrence rates are high.
federal way asbestos law firm of the relationship between asbestos and mesothelioma is ongoing. Funnel plots show the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant degree of variability between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
The mesothelioma rare disease occurs when malignant cells of the mesothelium grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body through the lymphatic or blood system, and affect other organs. Asbestos is the main reason, but it's not the only cause. The condition can be triggered by other genetic and environmental factors.
In some cases mesothelioma has been found in people who were not exposed to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma victims. They were usually exposed indirectly through the handling contaminated clothing or household items by someone who was exposed asbestos in their home. For instance, it's possible for someone to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma due to the exposure to asbestos fibers in clothing belonging to a loved one. Studies have shown that this kind of mesothelioma is more likely to have longer time to develop and is more likely to affect women than men.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition could play a part in the development of the disease. Recent studies have revealed that mutations in BAP1 gene can increase the risk of mesothelioma developing in those who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is important because it could lead improved screening methods for those who are at high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a range of genes are linked to mesothelioma. These genes are usually mutated in mesothelioma and inhibit tumor growth. These genes include the major tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
People with mesothelioma in their family are at greater chance of contracting the mesothelioma. Certain genes, like BAP1 BAP1, are inherited from parents. Veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma when compared to other occupational categories because asbestos was extensively used in the military. The people who served in the Navy and on ships were particularly at the highest risk due to the high exposure to asbestos in insulation, fireproofing materials and shipbuilding.