Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung lining (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). This rare cancer may develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium).
Asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Some patients with mesothelioma do not have a previous history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was once employed in industrial and construction products worldwide. People who worked in asbestos industries handled the mineral on a daily basis, putting them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can become trapped in the lungs, which can lead to progressive lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time the trapped fibers may also lead to mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled, eaten or absorbed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases when exposed.
The majority of mesothelioma cases stem from exposure to occupational toxins. Asbestos is a common ingredient in jobs, including electrical work and automobile maintenance. These trades are typically heavily populated by males, and as a result mesothelioma-related cases of males make up 75-80% of all reported cases. The phase-out of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world countries has reduced the risk of contamination. This has resulted in a shift in cases, with non-occupational exposure becoming more prevalent.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can occur when asbestos is released from the work environment or in the home or school environment. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand asbestos, such as when a family member handles the clothing of an asbestos-working worker. Those who experience this type of exposure may have symptoms such as breathlessness or chest pain that is often mistaken as heart or lung conditions.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposures, but the results differ. These studies were conducted with a a small number of participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was high. Further research is needed to establish the connection between exposure to non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
Those who have had non-occupational asbestos exposure should speak with their doctor about their asbestos-related background. If they are concerned, they should ask for a mesothelioma examination and referral to an expert. Specialists in mesothelioma will provide the best treatment and care to improve a patient's outlook. They will look over medical records, and perform imaging tests to determine the disease. They will also provide guidance on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to receive compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only factor that can cause you to develop this disease. In fact, there is a small amount of evidence that shows that people can develop mesothelioma, even if they have never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to hair, clothing and skin. As a result, workers could bring the hazardous fibers home in their work clothes, and then transfer them to family members. The asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if they are inhaled or ingestion.
This type of mesothelioma occurs more frequently in women and is usually found in the lungs. However, it can also occur in the abdomen or chest wall. Shortness of breath is the most typical symptom. It can be caused by a variety of other symptoms, like fluid in the lungs and swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is the name used to describe mesothelioma that is found in the lungs. Mesothelioma affecting the stomach or chest wall is called peritoneal mesothelioma. People suffering from this kind of mesothelioma may experience a variety of symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that people with no history of occupational exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma as a result of exposure to harmful fibers. The people who were affected typically resided with someone who was exposed to asbestos. They may have touched the clothing of the asbestos worker, or had other contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive asbestos used in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is particularly at risk due to asbestos being used to insulate the hull the ship as well as to protect gun turrets. Asbestos was also brought home by sailors from their duties on ships that were contaminated.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been linked to mesothelioma. However, the condition is most often associated with exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral was used in the manufacturing process for a number of years. The mineral is heat resistant and strong, making it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. Asbestos is broken down into dust that can be inhaled and swallowed. These fibers may remain in the stomach and lungs for a long time, and trigger mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequent mesothelioma-related symptoms include breathing problems, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos victims might suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or more following their initial exposure. It is important to consult a doctor when you experience these symptoms. Telling bellflower asbestos lawsuit about asbestos exposure is important. This will prevent a misdiagnosis and ensure you receive the correct treatment.
The most common mesothelioma patients from asbestos exposure are those who have worked directly with it however it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members can take in asbestos fibers or swallow them on the clothes of a worker's shoes or tools. They may also be exposed by someone bringing home these particles on their hair or clothing. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers and their families must always wash their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a substantial collection of studies that show an association between exposure to nonasbestos and mesothelioma, but there aren't any definitive conclusions yet regarding the role played by other agents. For example there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chlorosotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite can be found in soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma in the pleural cavity is high.
Research on the relationship between mesothelioma and nonasbestos exposure continues. Funnel plots show the possibility of bias in publications and there is a high degree of variability between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare condition caused by malignant mesothelial cell that develop out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body through the blood or lymphatic system, affecting other organs. Asbestos is the primary cause, but it is not the sole cause. Other genetic and environmental factors can trigger the condition.
In some instances, mesothelioma has occurred in people who had no direct exposure to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They were usually exposed indirectly through the handling harmful household items or clothing by someone who was exposed asbestos in their home. For instance, it is possible for one to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma as a result of the inhalation of asbestos fibers from clothing belonging to a loved ones. Studies have shown that this kind of mesothelioma has longer time to develop and is more likely to be affecting women than men.
Scientists are investigating the possibility that genetic predispositions to mesothelioma may be a factor in its development. Recent studies have revealed that the mutation in BAP1 genes increases the risk of mesothelioma developing among asbestos-exposed patients. This finding is important because it could lead improved screening methods for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a variety of genes that are linked to mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma, and they suppress the growth of tumors. These genes include the large tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. Some genes, such as BAP1 BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Asbestos was a common ingredient in the military for many years, and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate in comparison to other occupational groups. People who were in the Navy and on ships were at the highest risk due to the high exposure to asbestos in insulation, fireproofing materials, and shipbuilding.