Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of mesothelioma cases occur on the lung linings and abdomen. The rare cancer can also develop in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or the testes.
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. Some people with mesothelioma do not have any prior history of exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, which is a mineral that is of natural origin was utilized in the past for construction and industrial products all over the globe. People who worked in asbestos industries handled the material every day and were at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can become trapped in the lungs, which can cause lung diseases. This is known as asbestosis. Over time the fibers that are trapped can also lead to mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in, ingested or even absorbed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses increases when exposed.
The majority of mesothelioma cases are the result of occupational exposure. Asbestos is used in many professions, including electrical work and automobile maintenance. Because these professions are predominantly male-dominated 75-80% of mesothelioma patients are men. The phase-out of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations has reduced on-the-job contamination. This has caused a shift in cases, with occupational exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can develop when asbestos is released from the workplace environment or found in the school or home surroundings. It can also result from exposure through secondhand sources, such as when a family member handles the clothes of an exposed asbestos worker. People who are exposed to this kind of exposure might experience symptoms like breathing problems or chest pain that is often mistaken as lung or heart conditions.
Some studies have found a link between non-occupational exposure and mesothelioma, but the results are not consistent. These studies were conducted with a only a few participants, and the degree of heterogeneity between studies was substantial. It is necessary to conduct further research to establish the link between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to non-occupational asbestos should discuss their asbestos medical history with their physician. They should request mesothelioma testing if they have concerns, and ask for a referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the best treatment and care options to improve their prognosis. They will look over medical records, and carry out imaging tests to identify the disease. They will also provide advice on how to file mesothelioma suit to receive compensation from an asbestos trust funds.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to develop this disease. In fact, there is only a tiny amount of evidence that suggests that people may develop mesothelioma even though they never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry with asbestos-related activities. This is called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to hair, clothing skin, and other surfaces. This means that workers can bring the dangerous fibers home in their work clothes and then transfer them to family members. The asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if they are inhaled or consumed.
This mesothelioma type occurs more often in women and usually in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported symptoms is breathlessness (dyspnea), and it may be coupled with other signs like fluid in the lungs, or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is known as mesothelioma pleural. Peritoneal mesothelioma refers to the name for mesothelioma that affects the stomach wall or the chest wall. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a number of symptoms, including abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and constipation.
Numerous studies have revealed that even those who have no prior background of occupational exposure to asbestos could develop mesothelioma due to exposure to harmful fibers. The people who were affected usually lived with someone who was exposed to asbestos. They could have handled the garments of the worker or had other contact with asbestos.
Veterans are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive use of asbestos in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is at a higher risk since asbestos was used in the hulls and gun turrets of ships to guard them from fire. In addition, sailors frequently brought home asbestos from their jobs aboard ships that were contaminated with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked with various substances. The disease is still most often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally was used in the manufacturing process for a number of years. It is resistant to heat and strong, making it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. Asbestos breaks down into dust which can be breathed in and swallowed. These fibers can remain in the lungs or stomach for years, and trigger mesothelioma symptoms.
The most common symptoms of mesothelioma are chest pain as well as abdominal discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to persist for up to 60 years. It is important to consult an expert physician if you experience these symptoms. Informing your doctor about asbestos exposure is essential. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the proper treatment.
Mesothelioma that is caused by exposure to asbestos is more frequent in those who have worked directly with the material However, it is also able to affect loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members may inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on the clothing of a worker, shoes or tools. These particles can also be brought to home by someone who is wearing or having hair. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families must take care to clean their clothing after working around 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 chrysotile may cause mesothelioma. Erionite is present in the soil and rocks from certain regions in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma in the pleural cavity is high.
The research on the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma continues. Funnel plots have indicated the possibility of publication bias, and there is a high degree of heterogeneity between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma risk factor.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare condition caused by malignant mesothelial cells which grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body through the lymphatic or blood system, affecting other organs. Asbestos is the main cause, but it's not the sole cause. Other genetic and environmental factors can also trigger the condition.
In some cases mesothelioma is seen in people who had no direct exposure to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational victims of mesothelioma. They typically experienced an indirect exposure due to the handling of contaminated clothing or home items handled by an asbestos-exposed person in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that these kinds of mesothelioma patients tend to have longer latency times and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than husbands.
Scientists are currently studying the possibility that a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma could play a part in the development of the disease. Fresno asbestos lawyers have revealed that mutations in BAP1 gene can increase the risk of mesothelioma among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This is particularly important, as it could lead to improved screening procedures for those at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a number of genes that are related to mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma, and they suppress the growth of tumors. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. This is because some genes, like BAP1 BAP1 one, can be inherited from the parents. Asbestos was extensively used in the military for many years and veterans suffer from the highest mesothelioma rates when compared to other occupational categories. The people who served on ships and in the Navy were at highest risk because of asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation, and fireproofing materials.