Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer most often linked to asbestos exposure. If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to understand the connection between this toxic substance and the risk of developing mesothelioma. This cancer affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart and is often diagnosed decades after exposure. Here is the essential information you need to understand this connection and the risks involved.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue surrounding the lungs, heart, and abdominal organs. This cancer is particularly aggressive, with most cases diagnosed after the cancer has already spread. To understand mesothelioma, the International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma, Chicago brings together leading experts to discuss the latest research and treatment options for this aggressive cancer. Symptoms often do not appear until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, which is why it is frequently diagnosed too late for effective treatment.
The Role of Asbestos in Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals made up of fine fibers that are resistant to heat, fire, and many chemicals. For decades, asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Unfortunately, when these fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this damage can lead to mesothelioma and other serious health problems, including lung cancer and asbestosis. The more prolonged and intense the exposure, the higher the risk of developing mesothelioma.
How Asbestos Causes Cancer
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can travel deep into the lungs and get trapped in the lining of the lungs (pleura). Over time, these fibers cause chronic irritation, which can lead to genetic mutations in the cells of the mesothelium. This mutation process is often the beginning of mesothelioma.
These fibers can also cause inflammation and scar tissue, making it harder for the body to repair the damage and leading to cancerous growth.
- Chronic Inflammation: Once asbestos fibers are lodged in the lungs or abdomen, they trigger an inflammatory response. This constant inflammation creates an environment conducive to the development of cancer. The body’s immune system attempts to eliminate the foreign particles but often cannot, leading to prolonged irritation, which contributes to cellular mutations over time.
- Genetic Damage: Asbestos fibers can physically damage the DNA in the cells of the mesothelium. This damage to the genetic material disrupts normal cell division and growth. Over time, these mutations accumulate, causing cells to grow uncontrollably and form tumors, which can lead to mesothelioma.
- Reduced Ability to Repair Damaged Cells: The irritation caused by asbestos exposure also affects the cells’ ability to repair themselves. Normally, the body can fix DNA damage, but chronic asbestos exposure can overwhelm this repair process. This loss of cellular repair ability increases the likelihood that damaged cells will survive and multiply, eventually developing into cancer.
High-Risk Occupations and Environments
Certain occupations put workers at a higher risk for asbestos exposure. These include industries like construction, shipbuilding, auto repair, and manufacturing, especially when workers handle asbestos-containing materials. Even family members of workers who were exposed to asbestos have been found to develop mesothelioma, likely due to secondhand exposure brought home on clothing or tools. If you’ve worked in any of these industries, it’s important to monitor your health closely, as the risk of mesothelioma increases with the level and duration of exposure.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma often mimic those of less serious conditions, which makes early detection difficult. For pleural mesothelioma, common symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weight loss. Peritoneal mesothelioma, affecting the abdomen, can cause abdominal pain, swelling, and digestive issues. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have a history of asbestos exposure, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Early detection may help manage symptoms and improve outcomes.
Legal and Medical Resources for Those Affected
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos, there are legal avenues and support systems available to help. Many individuals who developed mesothelioma due to occupational asbestos exposure have successfully filed lawsuits against companies that failed to protect their workers. Medical treatments, though often limited, can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy. You may also qualify for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease closely linked to asbestos exposure, which can occur in certain workplaces and environments. Understanding the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos can help you take the necessary steps to protect your health, including seeking medical advice if you have been exposed to asbestos. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, some legal options and resources can provide support during this challenging time. Awareness is key in preventing further cases and helping those affected get the assistance they need.