Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung lining (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer can also develop in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. Some people with mesothelioma do not have any history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a mineral that is of natural origin was previously used for construction and industrial products all over the world. Workers working in asbestos-related industries were exposed to asbestos every day. Asbestos particles can be trapped in the lungs, where they cause progressive lung disease. This is called asbestosis. Over time, these fibers that are trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled, eaten or absorbed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases increases when exposed.
The majority of mesothelioma cases result from exposure to occupational toxins. Asbestos is widely used in jobs, including electrical work and vehicle maintenance. These trades are typically dominated by men, and as a result mesothelioma-related cases of males comprise 75-80% of all reported cases. 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 in cases, with occupational exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma may occur when asbestos is released from the work environment or found in the home or school environment. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, for example when a family members touches the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. This kind of exposure can cause symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breathe that are often mistaken for heart problems or lung conditions.
Certain studies have found that non-occupational exposure is linked to mesothelioma, however the results are not consistent. Many of these studies were conducted on a limited sample size, and between-study heterogeneity has been high. Further research is required to establish the causality between exposure to non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos history with their physician. They should seek mesothelioma tests when they are concerned, and ask for a referral to an expert. Specialists in mesothelioma can offer the most effective treatment and treatment to improve a patient's chances of survival. They will look over medical records and perform imaging tests to identify mesothelioma. They will also provide guidance on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to receive compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent cause of mesothelioma. However, it is not the only cause. There is some evidence that those who haven't handled asbestos or worked in industries that have asbestos-related work can still develop mesothelioma. This is known as secondary asbestos exposure, or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibres are very small and are able to stick to clothing, hair and skin. Workers may carry dangerous fibers in their work clothes at home, and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if inhaled or ingestion.
This type of mesothelioma is more common in women, and usually occurs in the lungs. However, it can be found in the abdomen or chest wall. The most common sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs is referred to as mesothelioma pleural. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the name for mesothelioma which affects the stomach wall or the chest wall. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a number of symptoms like abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
According to numerous studies, individuals who have not been exposed to asbestos at work may still develop mesothelioma due to exposure from secondhand sources. They typically resided with someone who was exposed to asbestos. They might have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker or had another contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at high risk of developing mesothelioma because of the widespread asbestos use in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is at a greater risk since asbestos was used in the hull and gun turrets of ships to protect them from fire. Asbestos was also taken home by sailors after their duties aboard ships that had been contaminated.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been associated with mesothelioma. The disease is often associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, was used in manufacturing for a number of years. The mineral is resistant to heat and strong making it ideal for insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring, and other products. When asbestos is broken up it releases dust which can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers may remain in the stomach and lungs for a long time, and trigger mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most common mesothelioma symptoms are breathing difficulties, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to last for up to 60 years. It is important to consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor of your history with asbestos. This can help prevent the wrong diagnosis and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
The most frequent victims of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure are those who have worked directly with it but it is possible for loved family members to be affected. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members can take in asbestos fibers from the work footwear, clothing, or tools. They may be exposed to these particles on their hair or clothing. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families must take care to clean their clothing after working with asbestos.
There is a large body of literature showing an association between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there is no conclusive conclusions regarding the role played by other agents. There is evidence to suggest that the zeolites, namely erionite and chlorosotile, can cause mesothelioma. las vegas asbestos law firm is present in the soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the risk of mesothelioma pleural is high.
The study on the relationship between nonasbestos and mesothelioma is in progress. Funnel plots indicate the possibility of publication bias and there is a large level of heterogeneity among studies. However, it's clear that occupational exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is an uncommon disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells which expand beyond control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also expand throughout the body through traveling through the lymphatic system or bloodstream and impacting other organs. While asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma isn't the only risk factor. Other environmental and genetic factors can cause the condition.
In some instances mesothelioma is seen in people who had no direct exposure to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. These individuals were typically exposed indirectly by the handling of hazardous household items or clothing by anyone who was exposed to asbestos in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma patients tend to have longer periods of latency and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma could play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have shown the mutation in the gene BAP1 increases the risk of mesothelioma developing among asbestos-exposed patients. This finding is important because it could lead to improved screening procedures for people who are at high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a number of genes that are related to mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in suppressing the growth of tumors, and are often altered or mutated in mesothelioma patients. These genes include the major homolog of tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
People with mesothelioma-related family history are at a higher risk for the mesothelioma. Certain genes, like the BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Asbestos was extensively used in the military for a number of years and veterans suffer from the highest mesothelioma rate when compared to other occupational categories. People who were in the Navy and on ships were particularly at the highest risk due to extensive exposure to asbestos in fireproofing, insulation materials and shipbuilding.