Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that attacks the mesothelium, a protective membrane covering many of the body’s internal organs including the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Mesothelium facilitates easy movement of organs as they function.
What causes mesothelioma?
The only fully-known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other possible causes such as SV40 are still being debated.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a fiber mineral with the strength of a steel and pliancy of cotton. Because it can be weaved without affecting its mineral strength. Thus, it is widely used in different industries including shipbuilding, car manufacture, and railway building.
Why is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos is made of fine fibers. When asbestos is disturbed, these fibers are released into the air. These fibers are small enough to be inhaled and carried into the lungs or other organs, damaging the organ’s cellular structure.
Is asbestos exposure the only cause of mesothelioma?
90% of diagnosed mesothelomia cases are linked with asbestos. The causes of other 10% are still unknown.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?
Generally, it takes 20-30 years for mesothelioma to develop. In rarer cases, though, as exhibited by workers at the World Trade Center, it took only five years for mesothelioma to develop.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breathing, chest pain, coughing, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Because they share characteristics with many other types of health conditions, mesothelioma is often hard to diagnose.
Who is at risk for mesothelioma?
People who have been exposed to asbestos either directly or secondarily are at risk for mesothelioma. These include workers and families of workers who worked at shipbuilding courtyards, mines, construction, and other industries that use or manufacture asbestos.
How many fatalities are there annually?
Approximately, 2,500 to 3,000 Americans die each year from mesothelioma. Mesothelioma accounts for approximately 3% of cancer cases.