Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung lining (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer may also form in the heart's lining (pericardium) or testes.
Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. Certain mesothelioma patients do not have a prior history of exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in industrial and construction products worldwide. The workers in asbestos-related industries were exposed asbestos each day. Asbestos fibers can get trapped in the lungs, where they cause progressive lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time the fibers that are trapped can cause mesothelioma as well. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or consumed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases with exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos was utilized in many trades, including construction insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally dominated by men, and as a result mesothelioma cases involving males comprise 75-80% of all reported cases. The gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States, and other first-world nations has reduced on-the-job contamination. This has caused an increase in cases with occupational exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma may occur when asbestos is released from the work environment or in the school or home environment. Exposure to asbestos from the outside can cause it, for example when a family members touches the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. This kind of exposure can cause symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breathe that are often mistaken for heart problems or lung diseases.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma to non-occupational exposures, but the results vary. A majority of these studies have been conducted with a small sample size, and within-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. It is necessary to conduct additional research to establish the connection between asbestos exposure from non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
Those with non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos history with their doctor. They should have mesothelioma screening when they are concerned, and ask for a referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists are able to provide patients with the best care and treatment options to improve their odds of survival. They will review medical records and perform imaging tests to diagnose mesothelioma. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma suit to get compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
While asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma not the only reason to develop this cancer. In fact, there's some evidence that people can get mesothelioma, even if they have never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is referred to as secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and they can stick to hair, clothing skin, and other surfaces. Workers may carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home, and then transmit them to family members. The asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if they are inhaled or consumed.
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 frequent symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea), and it can be coupled with other signs like fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is the name used to describe mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs. Mesothelioma that affects the chest wall or stomach is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. This type of mesothelioma can cause a variety of symptoms like abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that people with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos can still develop mesothelioma due to secondhand exposure to the harmful fibers. Most often, these people were living with someone who was exposed to the hazardous substance. 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 extensive asbestos used in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is at a greater risk due to asbestos being used in the hulls and gun turrets of ships to shield them from fire. Asbestos was also frequently brought home by sailors from their work aboard ships that had been affected by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked to various substances. However, the disease is often linked to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral is used in the manufacture of products for many years. The mineral is heat resistant and tough, which makes it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles flooring, and many other products. When asbestos is broken it releases dust that can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers may remain in the stomach or lungs for a long time, triggering mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequent mesothelioma symptoms are chest pain, abdominal discomfort and trouble breathing. Asbestos sufferers may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their first exposure. It is important to consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is essential. This can help prevent a misdiagnosis and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
The most common victims of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure are those who worked directly with it but it is possible for loved family members to be affected. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers on the clothing of a worker, shoes, or other tools. They may be exposed to the particles on their clothing or hair. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families must take care to clean their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a substantial body of literature that shows an association between exposure to nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there aren't any definitive conclusions yet on the role of other agents. For example, there is some evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile can cause mesothelioma. hayward asbestos lawsuit is found in soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the incidence of mesothelioma in the pleural cavity is high.
The research on the relationship between nonasbestos and mesothelioma is in progress. Funnel plots indicate the possibility of bias in publications and there is a high level of heterogeneity among studies. It is evident that asbestos exposure is the biggest risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
The rare disease mesothelioma is a condition in which malignant cells of the mesothelium grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body via the blood or lymphatic system, which can affect other organs. While asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma isn't the only risk factor. The condition could be triggered by other genetic or environmental factors.
Some mesothelioma cases have occurred in people who were not exposed directly themselves to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. They typically experienced indirect exposure from the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by an asbestos-exposed person in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma following inhaling asbestos fibers from 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 in husbands.
Scientists are investigating the possibility that mesothelioma-related genetic predispositions could play a role in its development. Recent studies have shown that the mutation of BAP1 gene could increase the risk of mesothelioma among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This is a significant finding because it could result in improved screening methods for those at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a number of genes that are related to mesothelioma. Some of these genes are involved in reducing the growth of tumors and are frequently mutated or altered in mesothelioma sufferers. These genes include the major tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
People who have mesothelioma in their family are at an increased chance of contracting the cancer. Some genes, such as BAP1, for instance, BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Asbestos was a common ingredient in the military for a number of years, and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate in comparison to other occupational groups. The people who served on ships and in the Navy were at highest risk because of asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation, and fireproofing materials.