Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Most commonly, mesothelioma develops on the lung linings and abdomen. The rare cancer may also form in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some people diagnosed with mesothelioma do not have an asbestos-related history.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a mineral that is of natural origin was previously used for industrial and construction products all over the globe. Workers in asbestos industries handled the substance every day, putting them at risk of exposure. Asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause lung diseases. This is known as asbestosis. As time passes, the asbestos fibers that have been trapped in the lungs could cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in, eaten or absorbed through the skin. The chance of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases when exposed.
Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos was employed in various trades, including construction insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. These professions are usually predominantly male-dominated, and as a result, male mesothelioma cases account for 75-80% of all reported cases. However, the gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has reduced exposure to asbestos on the job. This has resulted in a shift of cases as non-occupational asbestos exposure becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma can develop when asbestos is released from a work environment or is found in the home or school environment. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. Those who experience this type of exposure may have symptoms like breathlessness or chest pain that is often mistaken for heart or lung conditions.
Certain studies have linked non-occupational exposure to mesothelioma, but the results are inconsistent. These studies were conducted with a small number of participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was substantial. More research is needed to establish the causality between exposure to non-occupational sources and mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos medical history with their doctor. They should request mesothelioma testing when they are concerned, and ask for an appointment with an expert. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the most effective treatment and care options to improve their prognosis. They will analyze medical records and perform imaging tests to identify mesothelioma. They will also provide advice on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to receive compensation from an asbestos trust funds.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent mesothelioma-related cause. However, it is not the only cause. 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 with asbestos-related activities. This is called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can adhere to hair, clothing, skin and other surfaces. Westland asbestos attorneys means that workers can bring the dangerous fibers home in their work clothes and then transfer them to family members. The asbestos fibers that are scattered around can be swallowed or inhaled leading to mesothelioma.
The mesothelioma type is found more often in women and is usually found in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it may be coupled with other signs like fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is known as mesothelioma pleural. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall or stomach is referred to as mesothelioma peritoneal. A patient suffering from this type of mesothelioma might experience a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, breathing difficulties and constipation.
A number of studies have shown that even those who have no prior history of occupational exposure to asbestos could develop mesothelioma due to exposure to harmful fibers. They typically resided with someone who had been exposed to asbestos. They could have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker, or had other contact.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma because of the widespread asbestos use in military bases, ships and other vehicles. The Navy is at a greater risk, as asbestos was employed in the hull and gun turrets of ships to protect them from fire. Asbestos was also frequently taken home by sailors after their work aboard ships that had been affected by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of materials have been associated with mesothelioma. The disease is often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was used in manufacturing for a number of years. The mineral is heat resistant and strong, making it ideal for insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and other products. When asbestos is broken, it creates dust which can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers may remain in the lungs and stomach for many years, triggering symptoms of mesothelioma.
The most common mesothelioma symptoms include breathing problems, abdominal pain and chest pain. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to persist for up to 60 years. It is important to consult a doctor when you experience these symptoms. Telling your doctor about asbestos exposure is crucial. This can prevent a wrong diagnosis and ensure that you receive the right treatment.
The most common mesothelioma victims from asbestos exposure are those who have worked directly with it however it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members could inhale or ingest asbestos fibers from the work clothing, shoes or even tools. These particles could be sprayed on the to home by someone who is wearing or having hair. It is for this reason that mesothelioma sufferers and their families should wash their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a large amount of research that shows an association between nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However, there are still no definitive conclusions regarding the role played by other agents. There is some evidence to suggest that zeolites, erionite and chlorosotile which can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is present in the soil and rocks from certain regions in Turkey where the rate of mesothelioma pleural is high.
Research into the relationship between mesothelioma exposure and asbestos exposure is continuing. Funnel plots indicate the possibility of bias in publications and there is a high level of heterogeneity among studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
The mesothelioma-related rare disease occurs when malignant cells in mesothelium multiply uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body by traversing the bloodstream or lymphatic system and affecting other organs. Although asbestos is the principal cause of mesothelioma is not the only risk factor. The condition could be triggered by other genetic and environmental factors.
Some mesothelioma cases have been seen in people who did not directly expose themselves to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They were usually exposed through the handling of hazardous household items or clothing by someone who was exposed asbestos in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma following inhaling asbestos fibers from clothing of a family member. Studies show that these types of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer latency times and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives rather than husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma could play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have shown that mutations in BAP1, a gene, increases the risk of mesothelioma among those who are exposed to asbestos. This is significant because it could lead to improved screening procedures for people who are at high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a number of genes that are related to mesothelioma. These genes are usually mutated in mesothelioma, and they suppress tumor growth. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
People who have a family history of mesothelioma are at greater chance of contracting the disease. This is because some genes, like the BAP1, can be inherited from a parent. Veterans have the highest mesothelioma rates compared to other occupational groups due to asbestos being used extensively in the military. People who worked on ships or in the Navy were at highest risk due to asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation, and fireproofing materials.