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Mesothelioma – A Rare Asbestos Disease Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, occurs in the organs' linings. It is most prevalent in the abdomen and lungs (peritoneum) however it can also occur in the pleura. The chance of developing the disease increases when asbestos is exposed. Exposure to asbestos, which is an inert mineral that is resistant to fire and heat, is the primary risk factor. The symptoms may not show up until many years after exposure. Symptoms Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that forms in the tissues that line the stomach, lungs and the heart. It usually occurs when a person inhale asbestos fibers that enter the bloodstream and get absorbed in the organ's lining. Those who have worked with asbestos, such as plumbers, miners, and carpenters, are the most at risk. It can also occur in people who worked with workers who brought asbestos home on their clothes or skin. Other people at risk include those who work in a household where asbestos is present and those who disturb asbestos during renovations to their homes or maintenance. There are four mesothelioma stages. Early and mid-stages may not be symptom-free and it could take years before they're diagnosed. When cancer is discovered, it has advanced and is difficult to treat. Symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not show up until years after exposure. The condition can last for a long time because asbestos fibers have to travel from the lungs to different parts of the body before causing mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases start in the lung lining (pleural mesothelioma) but it can also start in the stomach lining or the heart. It can even appear in the tissues of the reproductive organs. A biopsy of the area affected is the most effective way to help doctors to diagnose mesothelioma. The biopsy is examined under a microscope to determine whether the cancer cells are mesothelioma or another type. Doctors may order x-rays or CT scans to pinpoint the issue. They can also use MRIs to determine if there is any tumors or if the lining of the abdomen or chest has become thicker. They can also check for fluid within the chest cavity. They can also order lung function tests to see the extent to which the lungs of an individual are working. A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma could be detrimental, since it could delay treatment, which could improve the chances of survival for a patient. This is why it's crucial to consult a physician when any symptoms arise. A GP can examine the symptoms and verify the history of asbestos exposure for a patient. Diagnosis Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining that surrounds many of organs inside the body, including the abdominal cavity and chest. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's outer layer (pleura). In less frequent instances, mesothelioma may be found in the membrane that runs along the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart sac (pericardium) and, very rarely, it can develop in the testicles (tunica vaginalis mesothelioma or vaginalis testicular mesothelioma). A doctor can diagnose the disease by taking a tissue sample for imaging tests or biopsy. A doctor can then determine the mesothelioma's stage that indicates how aggressive it is and how likely to grow. The most important mesothelioma-related risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a natural, heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in construction and manufacturing activities until the late 1970s. Mesothelioma is more prevalent among those who been employed in asbestos milling, mining pipes, insulators, and pipefitters. Inhaling hayward asbestos lawsuit could cause mesothelioma. These fibers can get trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the likelihood of smoking, which could further increase the risk for mesothelioma. The risk of mesothelioma is increased when you are exposed to asbestos exposure. Those who have been exposed to the highest levels of asbestos are at the greatest risk for mesothelioma. There are a few risk factors that can be altered like the age of a person or whether they smoke, but most mesothelioma-related risk factors are a result of asbestos exposure. Certain of these risk factors cannot be changed like a person's genes or family history. The risk of mesothelioma in a person is also increased if they have certain medical conditions or illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes. Treatment Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, affects the mesothelium, which forms the abdomen, lungs and heart. People who are exposed to asbestos are at risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease usually develops decades after exposure to asbestos. It can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can mimic other conditions and may change. Mesothelioma patients can receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds. There is no cure for mesothelioma however, there are treatments to manage the disease and improve the quality of your life. Patients should seek medical care from a doctor who has experience treating the disease. Doctors will review the medical history of the patient to determine if there are any symptoms and other mesothelioma-related risk factors, including asbestos exposure. The most commonly cited cause of Mesothelioma's is exposure to asbestos. It usually occurs due to breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that float in the air. The asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, leading to genetic mutations that can result in cancer. Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and is the most frequent mesothelioma type. However, it can be found in the linings of the chest wall (pericardium) as well as the abdomen and testicles (peritoneal mesothelioma). Mesothelioma, like all cancers is caused by DNA changes in a cell. The mutations cause the cell to grow uncontrollably and result in a tumor. Mesothelioma is found most often in those who are over 75 and those who have served in the U.S. military. There are different mesothelioma types, and each has a different rate of survival. Patients should be aware that a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be an extremely serious condition and is a difficult one to treat. There is hope, though as research continues to make advancements in extending the life expectancy. Veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible to receive VA benefits. Prevention Mesothelioma is a rare illness that is largely preventable. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once extensively used in shipbuilding, construction and other industries because of its unique characteristics of strength, durability, fire resistance and heat insulation. However, the tiny asbestos fibers become airborne when disturbed and if inhaled, can cause serious health problems such as mesothelioma. The only way to avoid mesothelioma is to avoid being exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is the main reason for mesothelioma and many people who are diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some point in their lives. Other factors can increase the chance of developing mesothelioma. These include smoking, age and genes. Mesothelioma is most often found in the abdomen and lungs. (tummy). Rarely does mesothelioma develop in other areas of the body. Mesothelioma takes many years to grow, and it might not appear for 20 or 40 years after exposure to asbestos. People who have been exposed asbestos should visit their physician regularly if they experience any unusual symptoms. This could include coughing or shortness of breathe. Asbestosis symptoms include tightness in your chest with persistent coughing and a bluish color to the skin. This is due to the body's struggle to get enough oxygen. Inhaled asbestos fibers can also cause irritation to the lungs, leading to scarring known as fibrosis. This could cause fluid to build up in the lungs and other body parts including the heart. Inflammation can also trigger genetic changes that can cause cancer to develop in the lung. Asbestosis is not curable, but there are treatments that can alleviate symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and air quality for patients. Mesothelioma is found most often in the lungs, however it can also affect the stomach, testicles, and heart. There is no way to avoid mesothelioma. However, there are ways to reduce the risk. They should always check for asbestos in the workplace and ask their employer about the safety standards they should adhere to. Wearing protective gear and washing at home away from work clothes is a good practice to ensure that asbestos fibers are not brought home on the clothes of family members.