Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of the time, mesothelioma is found on the lung linings as well as the abdomen. The rare cancer may also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium).
Asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. However, some people diagnosed with mesothelioma may not have a history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a mineral that is natural that was once used in industrial and construction products worldwide. Workers in asbestos industries handled the mineral on a daily basis and were at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can get into the lungs, causing progressive lung disease. This is referred to as asbestosis. Over time, these fibers that are trapped in the lungs can also cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled, eaten or absorbed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases when exposed.
Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos is used in many jobs, including electrical work, and maintenance of automobiles. These occupations are generally dominated by men and as a consequence, male mesothelioma cases comprise 75-80% of all reported cases. The phase-out of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations, has reduced occupational contamination. This has resulted in a shift in the number of cases, with asbestos exposure outside of the workplace becoming more frequent.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can occur when asbestos is released from the workplace environment or in the home or school environment. Exposure to asbestos from the outside can cause it, for example when a family members touches the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. The people who suffer from this type of exposure may have symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, which is commonly mistaken for heart or lung conditions.
Certain studies have linked non-occupational exposure to mesothelioma, but the results are inconsistent. A majority of these studies have been conducted with a small sample size, and between-study heterogeneity has been high. It is imperative to conduct further studies to confirm the connection between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos medical history with their doctor. They should request mesothelioma testing if they have concerns, and ask for a referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists can offer patients the best care and treatment options to improve their prognosis. They will look over medical records and perform imaging tests to diagnose mesothelioma. They will also give guidance on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to claim compensation from asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent mesothelioma-related cause. But, it's not the only one. In fact, there's some evidence that shows that people can develop mesothelioma even though they never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry with asbestos-related activities. This is known as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are small and are able to stick to clothing, hair and skin. In the end, workers could bring the hazardous fibers home in their work clothes, and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be swallowed or inhaled, which can lead to mesothelioma.
This form of mesothelioma is more common in women, and typically occurs in the lungs. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it can be coupled with other signs like fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs is referred to as mesothelioma of the pleural region. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall or stomach is called mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. el cajon asbestos lawyer of mesothelioma may cause a number of symptoms like abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing and constipation.
According to several studies, people who have not been exposed to asbestos while at work can still develop mesothelioma due to secondhand exposure. Most often, these people have lived with someone who was exposed to the dangerous material. They could have been in contact with the clothing of the asbestos worker, or had other contact.
Veterans are at a greater risk of mesothelioma because asbestos was extensively used in military bases, vehicles and ships. The Navy is particularly at risk because asbestos was used to insulate the hull the ship as well as to protect gun turrets. Asbestos was also brought home by sailors from their work on ships that were infected with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked with a variety of materials. However, the condition is often linked to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that was utilized for a number of years in manufacturing. The mineral is resistant to heat and strong, which makes it ideal for insulation, brakes and flooring, shingles and many other products. Asbestos is broken down into dust which can be breathed in and swallowed. These fibers can remain in the lungs or stomach for years, triggering mesothelioma symptoms.
The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain as well as abdominal discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos victims may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or more following their initial exposure. These symptoms could be mistaken for other illnesses, so it is essential to consult a doctor if you have these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is important. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the right treatment.
The most common mesothelioma patients from asbestos exposure are those who have worked directly with it however it is possible for loved relatives to be affected. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members could take in asbestos fibers from the work footwear, clothing or even tools. They could be exposed by someone bringing home the particles on their hair or clothing. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers as well as their families should wash their clothes in a clean manner after working with asbestos.
There is a large collection of research demonstrating a link between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there are no definitive conclusions regarding the role of other agents. For instance there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile may cause mesothelioma. Erionite can be found in the soil and rocks from certain areas in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma pleural is high.
The study on the relationship between nonasbestos and mesothelioma is in progress. Funnel plots have indicated the potential for publication bias, and between-study heterogeneity is very high. It is evident that asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare disease caused by malignant mesothelial cell that grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body by traversing the bloodstream or lymphatic system and impacting other organs. Although asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, it isn't the sole risk factor. Other genetic and environmental factors can also trigger the condition.
Some mesothelioma cases have occurred in people who didn't directly expose themselves to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. They typically experienced indirect exposure from the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by an asbestos-exposed individual in their household. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer latency times and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives rather than husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic susceptibility could play a part in the development of the disease. Recent studies have revealed that the mutation of BAP1 gene increases the risk of mesothelioma in those who are exposed to asbestos. This is significant because it could lead improved screening methods for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a range of genes are linked to mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in suppressing the growth of tumors and are frequently altered or mutated in mesothelioma patients. These genes include the large tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
People who have a family history of mesothelioma are at greater risk for the cancer. Some genes, such as BAP1, for instance, BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Asbestos was used heavily in the military for many years, and veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma compared to other occupational groups. People who were in the Navy and on ships were at greatest risk because of the extensive exposure to asbestos in insulation, fireproofing materials and shipbuilding.