Non Asbestos Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the thin that lines the chest or abdomen. Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma, and the risk increases with length and intensity of the asbestos exposure.
A person diagnosed with mesothelioma could be wondering how this happened. A mesothelioma lawyer could help them identify potential asbestos exposure sources.
1. Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a disease that affects the linings of the stomach or lungs (peritoneum). It is mainly related to asbestos exposure and it can take anywhere from 20 to 40 years to develop. It's not the lung cancer that affects one person for every 100,000 people in Australia each year.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of microscopic, strong fibers. It was used in thousands of commercial, industrial and residential products including drywall, insulation, pipes tiles, glues, tiles, and cement. The kind of asbestos that is most often associated with mesothelioma is called chrysotile asbestos. The most risk is for those who are exposed to asbestos every day, which includes shipyard workers, construction employees asbestos manufacturers, and those who handle asbestos, mix or remove it. Men are more likely than women to have worked in occupations that exposed them to asbestos and this could be the reason why more men are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
If you're diagnosed with mesothelioma, your doctor will look at your history and may diagnose you using a number of tools. This includes a physical exam, chest x rays and lung function tests. You will be asked about your work, family and your cultural background. If they suspect you have mesothelioma they will refer you a specialist.
You'll have to be referred by your GP However, the procedure for referrals can differ depending on where you live.
There are many variables that can influence your treatment options.
There is kent asbestos lawsuit for mesothelioma However, early detection can improve your prognosis and help you get the treatment you need. Contact your GP whenever you notice any symptoms. They may refer you to an expert or the top mesothelioma hospital. They will conduct a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis and assist you in determining the appropriate treatment for you.
2. Infections Viral
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer, occurs in the linings that surround various organs. It's most often found in the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) however, it can occur in the lining of the tummy (peritoneal mesothelioma) or even in the membrane that surrounds the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). More than 2,700 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the UK. The cancer is not curable, but treatment can reduce symptoms.
Exposure to asbestos is the single most significant factor that causes mesothelioma. The fire- and heat-resistant mineral was used to create various construction and building materials until it was banned in the year 1970. Workers who handled or removed these materials, like electricians, miners plumbers, insulators, pipefitters and remodelers of older homes, are at high risk of being exposed.
Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma through inhaling or swallowing the tiny fibers. The fibers then can penetrate the mesothelium and create a tumor. Most often, these tumors are malignant and can grow to other areas of the body.
The symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not manifest until a long time after exposure. Breathing problems, chest discomfort or abdominal distress are some of the symptoms. Anyone suffering from these symptoms should inform their doctor about their asbestos exposure history. They should also ask for a referral to a mesothelioma specialist to get the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers believe that genetics, in addition to environmental and chemical factors, are involved in mesothelioma. Some of these factors could cause cocarcinogens - substances which increase the cancer-causing potential of other chemicals. Other studies have revealed that viruses, such as the SV40 virus, could be associated with mesothelioma. A few studies suggest that talcum, a substance more frequently used by women than men, may be a factor in mesothelioma.
More research is required to better understand the causes of mesothelioma. As more information is uncovered, doctors can provide better treatment options and hopefully reduce the number of cases. Asbestos is still the most commonly cited cause but it is vital to be aware of other asbestos-related risks as well. This can improve patient outcomes and may even help prevent mesothelioma.
3. Chemical Exposure
Chemicals are an integral part of our everyday lives and are used in the production in a variety of industries. Chemical use has risen due to industrial development and demand for both goods and services. This has impacted the environment and worker safety, especially for those who are exposed to chemicals or come into contact with them on a regular basis.
There are a number of ways for people to be exposed to chemicals including inhalation, ingestion and skin contact. Once a chemical has been absorbed into the bloodstream, it could be harmful or not based on the liver's process. For instance, carbon tetrachloride, an old solvent, is now known to cause liver damage. When ingested, certain chemicals are broken down by the body to safer substances. This process is referred to as metabolism.
Exposure to chemicals may cause cancer and other health problems. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, affects the organs' linings and other structures in the body. Mesothelioma is most often seen following asbestos exposure. Exposure to asbestos can cause the development of peritoneal or pleural cancers or the combination of both is known as biphasic. The symptoms are usually found in the chest wall and lungs, but they can also be seen in the heart and abdomen.
The symptoms of mesothelioma don't generally show up until 20 to 60 years after the first asbestos exposure. If symptoms do start to show, it is important to get a mesothelioma diagnosis from a specialist, rather than a general oncologist. Specialists in mesothelioma are acquainted with the types of asbestos that cause the disease, and can precisely diagnose it by analyzing the patient's history of exposure.
Many people who have been in contact with asbestos are unaware that they could be at risk of developing the disease. Or, their doctor might not recognize mesothelioma on the basis of their past. A family member with mesothelioma is at an increased risk for developing the cancer. It is crucial to talk to a mesothelioma doctor about your asbestos exposure and any health issues you may be experiencing.
4. Genetics
Certain genes have been found to increase the chance of developing mesothelioma. Genetic mutations can lead to mesothelioma in people who have been exposed to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium- the tissue that covers most internal organs. Asbestos fibers can penetrate the thin layer of tissue and the sharp edges disrupt the genetic balance of cells over time. Cells that are not balanced can expand out of control and multiply and form groups. Over time, these clumps can become tumors that damage surrounding organs and tissues.
Asbestos exposure is the most prevalent mesothelioma-related cause, however other causes exist. For example, some people have developed mesothelioma due to exposure to other minerals, such as silica and Erionite. Others have developed mesothelioma after contact with paint additives containing asbestos. In the past asbestos paint was used to protect pipes made of metal. Other asbestos products include shingles and fireproof fabric.
A genetic mutation on chromosome 3 can also lead to mesothelioma. The cause of this mutation is an alteration in the BAP1 gene. The BAP1 gene regulates the channel that moves calcium inside cells. When this gene is mutated calcium levels drop, which increases the risk of cancer in a person due to asbestos and other carcinogens.
Scientists have observed mesothelioma clustering within certain families, even those with no occupational asbestos exposure. The affected family members carry an BAP1 mutation which predisposes to mesothelioma. In one mesothelioma linked family, all affected members carried the same BAP1 gene mutation.
Researchers are trying to determine the causes of mesothelioma. The more information doctors have, the more they are able to diagnose and treat mesothelioma in the early stages. Recognizing the factors that increase a person's risk of mesothelioma can help with prevention, too.
A lot of the risk factors for mesothelioma, such as smoking and family history, can be changed. However, some of the risk factors are permanent. Despite the fact that exposure to asbestos has been reduced thanks to the ban on asbestos, mesothelioma cases are increasing across the world. This is likely due to genetic and environmental factors are involved in the development of the disease. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in males than females. This is due to the fact that men are more likely to work in occupations that expose them to asbestos, and because the wives of asbestos workers could be exposed to asbestos by their husbands' clothing.