Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of mesothelioma cases occur on the lung linings and abdomen. This rare cancer can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium).
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. Some people with mesothelioma do not have any previous history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in industrial and construction products all over the world. People who worked in asbestos-related industries handled the mineral on a regular basis which put them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibers can become trapped in the lungs, where they cause progressive lung diseases. This is referred to as asbestosis. As time passes, the asbestos fibers trapped in the lungs may cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or consumed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases rises when exposed.
Most cases of mesothelioma stem from exposure to occupational toxins. Asbestos was used in a variety of trades, such as construction, insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. As these trades are predominantly male-dominated, 75-80% percent of mesothelioma is diagnosed in males. However, the gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has decreased on-the-job exposure. This has led to an increase in cases and asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings becoming more common.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released at the workplace or found at school or at home. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand asbestos like when a family member handles the work clothes of an exposed asbestos worker. This kind of exposure can cause symptoms like chest pain or a shortness of breath, which are often misinterpreted as heart conditions or lung diseases.
Certain studies have found a link between non-occupational exposure and mesothelioma, however the results aren't consistent. A majority of these studies have been conducted on a small sample size, and between-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. It is necessary to conduct more research in order to confirm the connection between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to asbestos in non-occupational settings should speak to their doctor regarding their asbestos-related history. They should seek mesothelioma tests in the event of concerns, and ask for a referral to an expert. Specialists in mesothelioma can offer the best treatment and treatment to improve a patient's chances of survival. They will analyze medical records and conduct imaging tests to determine if mesothelioma is present. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to obtain compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma not the only way to develop this disease. In fact, there is only a tiny amount of evidence that shows that people can develop mesothelioma despite not having directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is referred to as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
bridgeport asbestos attorneys are very small, and they can stick to hair, clothing or skin as well as other surfaces. This means that workers could bring the hazardous fibers home in their work clothes, and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma when they are inhaled or ingestion.
This mesothelioma type occurs more frequently in women and is usually found in the lungs. However, it can occur in the abdomen or the chest wall. The most commonly reported symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea), and it may be accompanied by other symptoms like fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is the name given to mesothelioma which is found in the lungs. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall, stomach, or is referred to as peritoneal mesothelioma. A patient suffering from this type of mesothelioma can experience a variety of symptoms such as abdominal pain, breathing problems and constipation.
According to a variety of studies, those who have not been exposed to asbestos at work are still susceptible to developing mesothelioma thanks to exposure through secondhand sources. In most cases, they have lived with someone who was exposed to the harmful substance. They could have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker or had another contact.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive asbestos use in military bases, ships and other vehicles. The Navy is especially at risk because asbestos was used to insulate the hull of the ship, as well as to fireproof gun turrets. Asbestos was also frequently brought home by sailors from their duties aboard ships that had been infected with asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked to a variety of materials. The disease is still most often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was utilized for a number of years in manufacturing. The mineral is heat-resistant and tough, which makes it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. When asbestos is broken up, it creates dust that can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers can stay in the stomach and lungs for a long time, and trigger mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequently reported mesothelioma symptoms are breathing difficulties, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos victims might experience these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their first exposure. The symptoms can be misinterpreted as other ailments, so it is essential to consult an expert if you experience these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor of your past history of asbestos. This can prevent a wrong diagnosis and ensure that you receive the right treatment.
The most commonly affected victims of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure are those who worked directly with it but it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on a worker's clothes, shoes or tools. These particles could be sprayed on the to home by someone who is wearing or having their hair. This is the reason mesothelioma sufferers and their families should always take care to clean their clothing after working around asbestos.
There is a substantial amount of research that suggests a relationship between nonasbestos exposure and mesothelioma. However there are no definitive conclusions yet on the role of other agents. For instance, there is some evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile may cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks in certain parts of Turkey, where pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
Research on the relationship between mesothelioma and nonasbestos exposure continues. Funnel plots indicate the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant degree of variability between studies. However, it is still clear that asbestos exposure in the workplace is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is an uncommon disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells that expand beyond control and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body by traversing the lymphatic system or bloodstream and impacting other organs. Although asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, it is not the sole risk factor. Other environmental and genetic factors can also cause the disease.
Certain cases of mesothelioma have been reported in people who were not exposed directly themselves to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They are typically exposed indirectly by the handling of hazardous household items or clothing by someone who was exposed asbestos in their home. For example, it is possible for someone to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma as a result of the inhalation of asbestos fibers from clothing belonging to a loved ones. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer latency periods and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives rather than husbands.
Scientists are examining the possibility that mesothelioma-related genetic predispositions could play a role in the development. Recent studies have shown the mutation of BAP1 genes increases the risk of mesothelioma developing among asbestos-exposed individuals. This finding is important because it could lead improved screening procedures for people who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a number of genes are involved in mesothelioma. These genes are frequently altered in mesothelioma and inhibit the growth of tumors. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2), and NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. Certain genes, like BAP1, for instance, BAP1, are inherited from parents. Asbestos was used heavily in the military for a number of years and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate in comparison to other occupational groups. People who worked on ships or in the Navy were at highest risk because of asbestos exposure in the construction of ships, insulation and fireproofing materials.