Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma most commonly develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer can also develop in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some patients diagnosed with mesothelioma do not have any history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a mineral that is of natural origin, was used in the past to make industrial and construction materials throughout the world. Workers working in asbestos industries were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos fibers can get lodged in the lungs, which can lead to progressive lung diseases. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, these fibers trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled, ingested or even absorbed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases when exposed.
The majority of mesothelioma cases are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos was utilized in a variety of trades, such as construction, insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. Since these occupations are dominated by males, 75-80% percent of mesothelioma is diagnosed in males. However, the phasing out of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has decreased on-the-job exposure. This has resulted in a shift in the number of cases and asbestos exposure outside of the workplace increasing in frequency.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released at the workplace or at school or at home. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, such as when a family members touches the work clothes of a asbestos worker. This type of exposure can cause symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath that are often misinterpreted as heart conditions or lung ailments.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposures, but the results are different. Many of these studies have been conducted on a small sample size, and between-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. edmond asbestos attorneys is needed to establish the causality between exposure to non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to non-occupational asbestos should discuss their asbestos medical history with their physician. They should request mesothelioma testing in the event of concerns and request an appointment with a specialist. Specialists in mesothelioma can offer the most effective treatment and care to improve the patient's prognosis. They will review medical records, and perform imaging tests to diagnose the disease. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit to get compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma. But, it's not the only cause. There is evidence that those who haven't had exposure to asbestos or worked in industries that have asbestos-related activities may still develop mesothelioma. This is known as secondary or non-occupational asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and are able to stick to clothing, hair and skin. Workers could carry dangerous fibers in their work clothes home and transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be swallowed or inhaled leading to mesothelioma.
This type of mesothelioma occurs more often in women and is usually found in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported symptoms is breathlessness (dyspnea) and it may be coupled with other signs like fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs is known as mesothelioma pleural. Mesothelioma affecting the chest wall or stomach is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. This kind of mesothelioma could cause a number of symptoms, including abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
According to a variety of studies, people who have not been exposed to asbestos at work can still develop mesothelioma due to exposure from secondhand sources. In most cases, they were living with someone who was exposed to the hazardous material. They may have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker or had another contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at a higher risk of mesothelioma because asbestos was widely used in military bases, vehicles and ships. The Navy is at a greater risk, as asbestos was employed in the hull and gun turrets on ships to shield them from fire. Asbestos was also taken home by sailors after their work aboard ships that had been contaminated.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked to a variety of substances. The disease is still most often associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally was used in the manufacturing process for a long time. The mineral is heat-resistant and tough making it ideal for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles and other items. When asbestos is broken down, it creates dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. These fibers can stay in the stomach and lungs for a long time, triggering symptoms of mesothelioma.
The most frequent mesothelioma-related symptoms include breathing problems, chest pain and abdominal discomfort. Asbestos patients might suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or more after their first exposure. These symptoms could be mistaken for other diseases, therefore it is important to see an expert if you experience these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor of your past history of asbestos. This will help avoid an incorrect diagnosis and ensure that you receive the correct treatment.
Mesothelioma resulting from exposure to asbestos is the most prevalent in people who work directly with asbestos However, it is also able to affect the loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or ingest asbestos fibers from the work clothing, shoes or even tools. They could also be brought home by someone who is wearing or having hair. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers as well as their families must clean their clothes after working with asbestos.
There is a significant body of literature that shows an association between exposure to nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there are no definitive conclusions yet regarding the role played by other agents. There is some evidence to suggest that zeolites, erionite and chlorosotile are able to cause mesothelioma. Erionite can be found in the soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the rate of mesothelioma in the pleural cavity is high.
The research on the connection between mesothelioma and exposure to nonasbestos continues. Funnel plots have shown the possibility of bias in publications, and the there is a high degree of heterogeneity between studies. However, it is still evident that asbestos exposure from work is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare condition caused by malignant mesothelial cells which grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also expand throughout the body through traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and affecting other organs. Asbestos is the main reason, but it's not the only cause. The condition could also be triggered by other environmental and genetic factors.
Certain cases of mesothelioma have been seen in people who did not directly expose themselves to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma victims. These individuals typically had indirect exposure through the handling of contaminated clothing or home items handled by an asbestos-exposed person in their household. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma following inhaling asbestos fibers from clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that this kind of mesothelioma is more likely to have a longer latency period and is more likely to be found in women than males.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition could play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that mutations in BAP1, a gene, could increase the risk of mesothelioma developing in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This is significant because it could lead improved screening procedures for people who are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a variety of genes that are linked to mesothelioma. Some of these genes are involved in suppressing the growth of tumors and are frequently altered or mutated in mesothelioma sufferers. These genes include the massive tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
People with mesothelioma in their family are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to certain genes, like BAP1 BAP1, can be inherited from a parent. Veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma when compared to other occupational categories because asbestos was extensively used in the military. People who worked on ships and in the Navy were at highest risk due to asbestos exposure in the construction of ships, insulation and fireproofing materials.