Post by Laura Jenkins on Jan 28, 2015 17:40:57 GMT
Mesothelioma Cancer: Warning Signs, Causes and Affects
With so many questions concerning mesothelioma, what it is and who is at risk, we turned to www.asbestos.com to see if they could answer some of the questions that we are often asked. They were very happy to help us out. Below is a blog they've written for us to share with you.
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by a long-ago exposure to asbestos, the naturally-occurring mineral that was used so overwhelmingly for commercial purposes throughout much of the 20th century.
It can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years after someone is first exposed to asbestos before mesothelioma develops and symptoms begin to appear. Even then, the disease is often misdiagnosed because the early symptoms mirror those of less-serious, more-common illnesses.
Mesothelioma is an unusual cancer that a majority of the time attacks the thin lining surrounding the lungs or abdomen. It diffuses throughout the cavity, unlike many cancers that begin as a solid nodule or mass.
Early symptoms of mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related diseases, include shortness of breath, fatigue, coughing, chest pains and reduced respiratory function.
Because it is a rare cancer – an estimated 3,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year -- many medical professionals rarely see it, which can slow down an already lengthy diagnostic process. It takes considerable testing before a positive diagnosis can be confirmed by a specialist.
Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the latest multi-modality approach can enable patients to survive for several years. The key is getting an early diagnosis before the cancer metastasizes, thereby making surgery still an option.
The majority of cases of mesothelioma are caused by past occupational exposure, which is important when discussing symptoms with a physician. This is another key part of the diagnostic process. If you recall asbestos exposure, mention it to the physician. An exposure history can help the doctor as he looks for answers to your symptoms.
Professions most at risk for developing asbestos-related diseases are construction work, ship building and ship repair, auto repair, plumbing, railroad work, factory work and military service. Most occupations within the military, and especially in the U.S. Navy, once were linked extensively to asbestos exposure. All branches of the military were known to use asbestos widely.
Second-hand exposure is also an issue. There are many cases where a spouse is exposed to asbestos brought home on clothing that a worker was wearing.
Asbestos was once coveted for its ability to insulate, strengthen and fireproof almost anything. It was once used in almost all commercial and residential construction, in floors, walls, ceilings and roofs. It has been used in thousands of products.
The use of asbestos in America peaked in the mid-1970s but declined rapidly once its toxicity became so well known. The residual effect of that asbestos peak is just now being felt.
Structures built before the 1980s that are being remodeled, renovated or demolished today also are putting people at risk. Asbestos becomes especially dangerous when disturbed and the microscopic fibers become airborne. They often are unknowingly inhaled or ingested.
Anyone suspected of developing mesothelioma, or any other asbestos-related disease, should see a specialist with experience in handling the disease. Although mesothelioma once came with an especially dire prognosis – six to 18 months to live – people today are living considerable longer because of recent medical advances and treatments.