Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma typically develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The rare cancer may also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium).
Asbestos exposure is the main 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 previously used in construction and industrial products worldwide. Workers working in asbestos industries were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos fibers can get into the lungs and cause lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, the fibers that are trapped in the lungs can also cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or consumed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases increases with exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma stem from occupational exposure. Asbestos was utilized in many trades, including construction, insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. These professions are usually heavily populated by males and, as a result mesothelioma cases involving males comprise 75-80 percent of all cases reported. However, the gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has decreased on-the-job exposure. This has resulted in a shift of cases as asbestos exposure outside of the workplace becoming more common.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma can be caused by asbestos is released in the workplace, or is found at the home or in schools. The secondhand exposure can also trigger it, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. This kind of exposure can cause symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, which are often mistaken for heart problems or lung conditions.
Some studies have found a link between non-occupational exposure and mesothelioma, however the results are not consistent. A majority of these studies have been conducted with a small sample size, and the between-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. It is imperative to conduct additional studies to confirm the connection between asbestos exposure from non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos in non-occupational settings should speak to their doctor about their asbestos-related background. If they are concerned, they should ask for a mesothelioma examination and referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the most effective treatment and care options to improve their chances of survival. They will review medical records and perform imaging tests to determine if mesothelioma is present. They will also give advice on how to file a mesothelioma suit to receive compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only way to develop this cancer. In fact, there's a small amount of evidence that shows that people can develop mesothelioma, even if they have never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to clothing, hair and skin. As a result, workers can bring the dangerous fibers home in their work clothes and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if inhaled or ingestion.
This form of mesothelioma is more prevalent in women, and it usually occurs in the lung. However, it can also be found in the abdomen and chest wall. The most commonly reported sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea), and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is called mesothelioma pleural. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall or stomach is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. This kind of mesothelioma may cause a number of symptoms including abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing, and constipation.
Several studies have reported that individuals with no history of occupational exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos through secondhand fibers. Most often, these people have lived with someone who was exposed to the hazardous substance. They might have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker or had another contact.
Veterans are at a greater risk of mesothelioma because asbestos was used extensively in military bases vessels, vehicles and bases. The Navy is at a higher risk, as asbestos was used in the hulls and gun turrets of ships to protect them from fire. Additionally, sailors often brought asbestos home from work aboard ships that were contaminated by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been linked to mesothelioma. The disease is often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally is used in the manufacture of products for a long time. The mineral is resistant to heat and durable making it ideal for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles, and other products. Asbestos is broken down to dust, which can be inhaled and swallowed. These fibers can remain in the stomach or lungs for years, triggering mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequently reported mesothelioma symptoms include breathing problems, abdominal pain, and chest pain. Asbestos sufferers may suffer from these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or longer after their initial exposure. It is essential to consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. It is also important to tell your doctor about your past history of asbestos. This will help avoid a misdiagnosis and ensure you receive the correct treatment.
The most common mesothelioma patients from asbestos exposure are those who been directly exposed to asbestos however it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on a worker's clothes, shoes, or other tools. They could be exposed to asbestos by someone who brings home these particles on their clothing or hair. It is for this reason that mesothelioma sufferers and their families must always wash their clothes in a clean manner after working with asbestos.
There is a large body of literature that shows an association between exposure to nonasbestos and mesothelioma, but there aren't any definitive conclusions yet about the role of other agents. For example, there is some evidence that the zeolites erionite and chrysotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and in the rocks of certain regions of Turkey in which pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
The study of the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is ongoing. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of bias in publications and there is a significant level of heterogeneity between studies. It is evident that asbestos exposure is the biggest 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 spread through the body via the blood or lymphatic system, which can affect other organs. Although asbestos is the principal cause of mesothelioma is not the only risk factor. The condition could also be triggered by other genetic or environmental factors.
Some mesothelioma cases have been reported in people who were not exposed directly themselves to asbestos. fort lauderdale asbestos attorney are known as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. They are typically exposed indirectly by the handling of hazardous household items or clothing by someone who was exposed to asbestos in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that this kind of mesothelioma is more likely to have an extended latency time and is more likely to be affecting women than men.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma might play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that the mutation in BAP1 gene increases the risk of mesothelioma among asbestos-exposed people. This is a significant finding because it could be the basis for improved screening procedures for those at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a variety of genes that are related to mesothelioma. Certain of these genes are involved in suppressing the growth of tumors, and are often altered or mutated in mesothelioma patients. These genes include the massive homolog 2 of tumor suppressor (LATS2) and the NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. Some genes, such as the BAP1 that are passed down from parents. Asbestos was extensively used in the military for many years, and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rates in comparison to other occupational groups. People who were in the Navy and on ships were at risk the most due to extensive exposure to asbestos in insulation, fireproofing materials, and shipbuilding.