Asbestos Mesothelioma

Asbestos is a fibrous material that was often used for it’s

great insulating properties. When intact, the fibers perform effectively and

provide no danger to humans. However, the fibrous material breaks down

tremendously with age, and when the individual fibers are inhaled into the

lungs, asbestosis may occur in exposed individuals. Asbestosis is a condition

where the lungs develop scar tissue.

This scarring can and in most cases does result in the

onset of Asbestos Mesothelioma. One of the most dangerous cancers known to the

medical community, this condition has been the reason for controversy

surrounding the use of asbestos at all. Generally, buildings with asbestos

require complete removal and quarantine of all materials until inspections are

performed.

In this type of cancer, the lining of the lungs becomes

inflamed, cells grow abnormally and the condition is extremely painful for the

patient. The condition can be either benign or malignant, both requiring

treatment although only the malignant variety is known to spread to surrounding

tissues and organs in the body.

The incubation period for this type of cancer can range

from twenty to fifty years from the time of exposure. Many new cases are being

discovered every day, however the number of new cases is anticipated to heavily

decline as a result of removal and regulatory efforts regarding the use of

asbestos.

Shortness of breath and chest pain are the two most

commonly reported signs of asbestos Mesothelioma, however other symptoms may

include rapid weight loss, abdominal pain and swelling, anemia, bowel

obstruction and unexplained fevers. If you were ever exposed to asbestos and

you experience these symptoms it is imperative to get to a doctor as soon as

possible for testing.

If the cancer has spread, you may also experience trouble

swallowing or facial swelling and pain.

Treatment for this type of cancer will vary on the patient,

their general health and the stage of the disease. Commonly used treatment

options are chemotherapy, radiation and in some cases surgery. Prognosis will be

determined after complete testing, and will depend on the severity of the

cancer.

Mesothelioma – for terms page

Mesothelioma is cancer within the lining cells of the

lungs, and the chest cavity (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart

(pericardium). Generally, patients diagnosed with Mesothelioma have at some

point in their lives come in contact with asbestos, either at home or at their

jobs. Unfortunately, it takes many years for cancer to develop in these cases

and people who were exposed as long as 50 years ago are just now being

diagnosed. This is a very controversial cancer, resulting in many legislation

changes regarding the use of asbestos and many lawsuits against the companies

that continued to use the substance knowing it presented a potential serious

hazard.