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Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos Related Cancers People who have an exposure history to asbestos are at risk for various types of cancer that include mesothelioma. These diseases have a lengthy time to develop, meaning that symptoms do not manifest for years after exposure. The risk of developing pleural or peritoneal msothelioma declines after the first exposure. The evidence is based on two residential and six occupational cohort studies that have a long-term follow-up. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma refers to cancer of the inner organs' linings which include the lung (pleural mesothelioma) and abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or heart (pericardial mesothelioma). It's a rare and aggressive disease that usually begins in the chest's lining cavity, but it may also be found in the lining of the stomach or other parts of the body. Asbestos exposure is the main reason for mesothelioma, and the cancer typically doesn't develop until a long time after the initial exposure. People who are exposed to asbestos in the workplace have higher chances of developing the disease than others. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or swallowed and bind to the lining of the organ. They irritate the lining of the organs and cause abnormal cells to grow and form tumors. Symptoms usually do not appear until someone has advanced mesothelioma. The majority of asbestos exposure happens in the workplace where workers are exposed to the substance or work around it. Asbestos was employed in shipbuilding, construction, auto repair and other trades. Veterans who served in the military are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was extensively used on bases and ships. People who have an history of exposure to asbestos should be screened regularly and be aware of any unusual symptoms. If the doctor suspects mesothelioma, they can request imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI or PET scans to detect tumors and determine whether they have expanded. They can also inquire about the patient's past history of asbestos exposure and carry out an examination. Some cases of mesothelioma can be related to genetic changes. So, certain patients could benefit from genetic tests. Risk Factors The primary mesothelioma-related risk is exposure to asbestos. nashua asbestos law firm is a mineral made by tiny fibers which are strong and withstand heat. Asbestos was utilized in a variety of construction and manufacturing products including insulation, brakes, and shingles. Asbestos dust is inhaled and swallowed if disturbed. This can cause irritation to the mesothelium over time which could eventually lead to mesothelioma. People with a history of occupational asbestos exposure are at the greatest risk for mesothelioma. This includes people who worked in industries such as mining, shipbuilding construction, automotive repair and construction. Veterans of the military are also at high risk, as many branches of the military utilized asbestos-based materials. A family history of asbestos or radiation therapy to the chest are also factors that increase mesothelioma risk. Additionally the mesothelioma type diagnosed has significant effects on the risk. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent form and typically affects the lung. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testsicular, testicular, and peritoneal. In general mesothelioma is a cancer that increases with the third or fourth power of latency, which is the length of time it takes for someone to be diagnosed. However, the rate of pleural mesothelioma has an apparent flattening after around 40 years after exposure. Both pericardial and peritoneal mesothelioma exhibit the same pattern. Exposure to asbestos that is not occupational, such as living near an asbestos plant or consuming food products contaminated by asbestos can also increase the risk of mesothelioma. A study of six cities revealed that those with this kind of exposure had a greater mesothelioma rate than those with only occupational exposure. Symptoms Malignant mesothelioma affects the cellular linings surrounding internal organs. Most commonly, it occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. Mesothelioma can also occur in the lining of the testicles or the heart. It is a rare form of cancer. The majority people diagnosed with mesothelioma have jobs where they were exposed to asbestos. It can take a long time for symptoms of mesothelioma to develop and the condition is not curable. Asbestos is an assortment of minerals that possess microscopic fibers and are resistant to heat, chemicals and fire. It was once widely used in shipbuilding, construction manufacturing, and many other industries. Exposure to asbestos may cause mesothelioma, because asbestos fibers can become stuck in the tissues that line and protect organs. This causes irritation and damages cells. This can cause tumors to expand and eventually develop into cancerous. The most common mesothelioma type is called pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura). It may also start in the lining that surrounds the heart or testicles or in the abdominal lining (peritoneum). Mesothelioma can also spread to lymph nodes, which causes swelling of the lymph nodes. Most people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are those who have many years of exposure to asbestos and are suffering from other ailments like chronic lung disease. The symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to those of other conditions and it is therefore important to see a doctor if you observe any warning signs or symptoms. Doctors will ask about your asbestos exposure in the past and may conduct an examination. They may also conduct blood tests and imaging scans of your abdomen or chest. These tests can detect any thickening or fluid between the lungs and chest wall. Diagnosis Asbestos fibers that become stuck on the body can cause damage and can eventually turn into cancerous tumors. Different kinds of asbestos-related cancers develop in various tissues or organs, and each type can be identified using different tests. Mesothelioma forms in the lining of the chest cavity and lungs (pleura), the stomach membranes (peritoneum) or around the reproductive organs and the heart. To determine if mesothelioma is a cancer, a patient must first consult with their physician about the history of asbestos exposure they have suffered and any symptoms they are experiencing. Doctors will also conduct a physical exam and order basic tests like blood tests to determine how well the lungs are working. X-rays or CT scans can aid doctors in identifying the affected area more clearly. In certain cases, doctors will use an pleural effusion test in order to determine if mesothelioma or another disease is causing the accumulation of fluid in the lung. The pleural effusion could be a symptom of pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma or a rarer form of mesothelioma known as biphasic or mixed mesothelioma. The mesothelioma symptoms are often not properly diagnosed, because they are similar to those of other diseases. The most commonly reported symptoms are breathing difficulties and chest pain. Pleural mesothelioma may also cause chest tightness, cough and fatigue. Peritoneal mesothelioma can lead to abdominal pain swelling and distension. Testicular mesothelioma can manifest as a swollen or itchy lump in the testicles. Researchers are studying specific blood-borne proteins to find an approach to detect mesothelioma early on. They are also researching several other tests and procedures that can improve diagnostic accuracy. This includes mesothelioma scans and MRIs. They are also studying genetic mutations and how to determine if someone is at risk of developing mesothelioma by looking at their family history. Treatment Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. People who have worked with asbestos, particularly in high-risk occupations such as electrical work, construction or shipbuilding, auto repairs, and military service are at a higher risk. Exposure to asbestos may cause mesothelioma when the fibers get stuck in the tissue that lines vital organs and shields them. The fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium and cause DNA damage that leads to cancerous cells. The symptoms of mesothelioma typically are not evident for a long time after exposure. The symptoms vary based on the type of mesothelioma and the location it is found within the body. Most mesothelioma cases involve lung lining (pleural mesothelioma) however, it can also occur in the lining of the stomach (peritoneal mesothelioma) and the heart (pericardial mesothelioma) or testicles (testicular mesothelioma). Mesothelioma staging helps doctors determine treatment options. The cancer is classified as stage I through stage IV with stages I and II being early and the most manageable. Stage III and stage IV are the last stages of cancer and are more difficult to treat. However there are many options to treat. The most common mesothelioma type affects the linings of the lungs and chest wall and the abdomen. In the majority of cases of pleural mesothelioma asbestos exposure occurred in the workplace. This is most likely because of exposure to asbestos particles in the air or ingestion of the toxic substance through the food chain. Other risk factors are a genetic mutation, a family history or prior radiation therapy for a different disease. If you have been exposed to asbestos and suffer from mesothelioma symptoms it is crucial to see an expert. You may also benefit from genetic counseling. In some cases, a mesothelioma specialist can help you file a lawsuit against companies who incorrectly use asbestos in everyday products.