Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes.
Asbestos is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may not have a history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a rock of natural origin, was previously used for construction and industrial products throughout the world. People who worked in asbestos-related industries handled the material on a daily basis and were at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause progressive lung diseases. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, the fibers that have been 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 with exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases result from occupational exposure. Asbestos is a common ingredient in jobs, including electrical work and automobile maintenance. Since these occupations are dominated by males 75-80% of mesothelioma is diagnosed in men. However, the phasing out of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has led to a decrease in exposure on the job. This has led to a shift in the number of cases and non-occupational asbestos exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released in the workplace or found at the home or in schools. It can also be caused by secondhand exposure, such as when a family member wears the clothing of an asbestos worker who has been exposed. Those who experience this type of exposure might experience symptoms such as breathlessness or chest pain that is often mistaken for lung or heart conditions.
Certain studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposure, however the results vary. These studies were conducted with only a few participants, and the degree of heterogeneity between studies was quite high. It is necessary to conduct further research to establish the link between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
Those who have had non-occupational asbestos exposure should consult your doctor about their asbestos history. If they are concerned, they should ask for mesothelioma screening and a referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists can offer patients the most effective treatment and care options to improve their prognosis. They will look over medical records and conduct imaging tests to determine if mesothelioma is present. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma suit to obtain compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma. However, it's not the only one. There is evidence to suggest that those who haven't handled asbestos or worked in industries with asbestos-related activities can still develop mesothelioma. This is called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are small and can adhere to hair, clothing, and skin. In the end, workers can bring the dangerous fibers home on their work clothes and then transfer them to family members. These stray asbestos fibers can be swallowed or inhaled, leading to mesothelioma.
This form of mesothelioma is more prevalent in women, and usually occurs in the lungs. However, it could also be found in the abdomen or the chest wall. The most commonly reported symptoms is breathlessness (dyspnea) and it can be accompanied by other symptoms like fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma refers to the name used to describe mesothelioma that is found in the lungs. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the name for mesothelioma which affects the stomach wall or chest wall. A person with this type of mesothelioma may experience a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, breathing problems and constipation.
Several studies have reported that individuals with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos can still get mesothelioma because of exposure to harmful fibers. Most often, these people have lived with someone who was exposed to the harmful material. Rancho Cucamonga asbestos attorney may have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker, or had other contact.
Veterans are at a high chance of developing mesothelioma as asbestos was used extensively in military bases, vehicles and ships. The Navy is at a higher risk since asbestos was used in the hull and gun turrets on ships to protect them from fire. Asbestos was also brought home by sailors who had returned from their work aboard ships that had been affected by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of substances have been linked to mesothelioma. The disease is still most often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that was used for many years in manufacturing. The mineral is heat resistant and tough, which makes it ideal for insulation, brakes, shingles flooring, and other products. When asbestos is broken down, it creates dust that can be inhaled or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the stomach or lungs for a long time, triggering mesothelioma symptoms.
The most frequently reported symptoms of mesothelioma are chest pain as well as abdominal discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to last for up to 60 years. It is important to consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor about your previous history of asbestos. This can help prevent a misdiagnosis and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
Mesothelioma that is caused by exposure to asbestos is most common in people who worked directly with the material however, it can also be a problem for loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members may take in asbestos fibers or swallow them on the clothing of a worker, shoes or tools. They may also be exposed to asbestos by someone who brings home the particles on their clothing or hair. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers as well as their families must always wash their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a huge collection of research demonstrating a link between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there are no definitive conclusions about the role played by other agents. For example there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in soil and rocks in some regions of Turkey, where pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
The study on the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is in progress. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of publication bias and there is a significant degree of variability between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the biggest mesothelioma risk factor.
Genetics
The mesothelioma rare disease occurs when malignant cells of mesothelium multiply uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and impacting other organs. While asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma, it isn't the only risk factor. Other environmental and genetic factors can also cause the disease.
Some cases of mesothelioma have been seen in people who did not directly expose themselves to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. They typically experienced an indirect exposure due to the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by an asbestos-exposed individual in their household. 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. Studies show that these types of mesothelioma patients tend to have longer periods of latency and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives rather than husbands.
Scientists are investigating the possibility that genetic predispositions to mesothelioma could play a role in the development. Recent studies have shown that mutations in BAP1 gene could increase the risk of mesothelioma among those who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is important because it could lead to improved screening methods for those who are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a variety of genes that are associated with mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in limiting the growth of tumors, and are often mutated or altered in mesothelioma patients. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
People with a family history of mesothelioma are at greater risk of developing the mesothelioma. Some genes, such as BAP1, for instance, BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate in comparison to other occupational groups because asbestos was extensively used in the military. The people who served on ships or in the Navy were at the highest risk due to asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation and fireproofing materials.