Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Most commonly, mesothelioma develops on the lung linings and abdomen. The rare cancer may also form in the heart's lining (pericardium) or the testes.
Asbestos is a major mesothelioma-related risk factor. Some patients with mesothelioma do not have any history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a rock that is of natural origin was used in the past for industrial and construction products all over the globe. People who worked in asbestos-related industries handled the material on a regular basis, putting them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can get lodged in the lungs, where they cause progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. As time passes, the asbestos fibers trapped in the lungs can also cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or consumed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases rises when exposed.
Most cases of mesothelioma result from occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in many trades, including construction insulation and electrical work, as well as automobile maintenance and pipefitting. Because these professions are predominantly male-dominated, 75-80% percent of mesothelioma patients are men. The elimination of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world countries has reduced the risk of contamination. This has resulted in a shift of cases as asbestos exposure outside of the workplace increasing in frequency.
Non-occupational mesothelioma may occur when asbestos is released from a work environment or found in the home or school surroundings. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand asbestos like when a family member wears the clothes of an exposed asbestos worker. Those who experience this type of exposure may experience symptoms like breathing problems or chest pain that is often mistaken for lung or heart problems.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma to non-occupational exposure, but the results vary. The studies were conducted with very few participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was quite high. It is essential to conduct additional studies to confirm the connection between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to non-occupational asbestos should discuss their asbestos history with their physician. They should have mesothelioma screening if they have concerns, and ask for a referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists are able to provide patients with the best treatment and care options to improve their odds of survival. They will review medical records and conduct imaging tests to diagnose the disease. They will also give advice on how to file a mesothelioma suit to obtain compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only reason to develop this disease. There is evidence that people who haven't had exposure to asbestos or worked in industries with asbestos-related activities may still develop mesothelioma. This is referred to as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small, and they can stick to clothing, hair skin, and other surfaces. Workers can carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home and then pass them on to family members. These asbestos fibers could cause mesothelioma if inhaled or ingested.
This form of mesothelioma is more common in women, and usually occurs in the lung. However, it can be found in the abdomen and chest wall. The most common symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea), and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is the name given to mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs. Mesothelioma that is affecting the stomach or chest wall is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a variety of symptoms like abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing, and constipation.
Several studies have reported that people with no history of occupational exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos through secondhand fibers. Most often, these people were living with someone who was exposed to the dangerous substance. They could have handled the worker's clothing, or they might have been in contact with asbestos in other ways.
Veterans are at high risk of developing mesothelioma because of the widespread use of asbestos in military bases, ships and other vehicles. The Navy is particularly at risk because asbestos was used to insulate the hull the ship and to fireproof gun turrets. Additionally, sailors often brought asbestos home from work aboard 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 is a mineral that occurs naturally is used in the manufacture of products for many years. It is a heat-resistant material and strong making it ideal for insulation, brakes and flooring, shingles and many other products. Asbestos breaks down into dust which can be breathed in and swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the stomach or lungs for a long time, triggering mesothelioma symptoms.
The most frequently reported mesothelioma symptoms are difficulty breathing, abdominal pain and chest pain. Asbestos victims may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their initial exposure. The symptoms can be misinterpreted as other ailments, so it is important to see a doctor if you have these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is important. This can help prevent the wrong diagnosis and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
Mesothelioma resulting from exposure to asbestos is most frequent in those who have worked directly with asbestos, but it can also affect the loved ones of those exposed. longmont asbestos lawsuit is known as secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on a worker's clothes, shoes or tools. These particles could be sprayed on the to home by someone who is wearing or having hair. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families should always ensure that they clean their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a substantial amount of research that shows the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma. However there is no definitive conclusions regarding the role played by other agents. For instance there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite can be found in soil and rocks from certain areas in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma pleural is high.
The research on the relationship between nonasbestos and mesothelioma is ongoing. Funnel plots have indicated the potential for bias in publications, and the there is a high degree of heterogeneity between studies. It is evident that asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is an uncommon disease caused by malignant mesothelial cell that develop out of control 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 cause, but it is not the only cause. The condition could be caused by other genetic and environmental factors.
Some cases of mesothelioma have been reported in people who didn't directly expose themselves to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma victims. They usually had indirect exposure through the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by an asbestos-exposed person in their household. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Studies show that these types of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer latency periods and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than in husbands.
Scientists are currently studying the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition could play a part in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that the mutation of BAP1 gene could increase the risk of mesothelioma developing in those who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is especially important, as it could be the basis for improved screening procedures for those at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of genes are involved in mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma and inhibit tumor growth. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
A family history of the disease increases the risk. Some genes, such as BAP1 BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Asbestos was a common ingredient in the military for many years, and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate compared to other occupational groups. Those who served in the Navy and on ships specifically were at the highest risk because of the extensive exposure to asbestos in fireproofing, insulation materials and shipbuilding.