Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of mesothelioma cases occur on the lung linings as well as the abdomen. The rare cancer may also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. However, some people diagnosed with mesothelioma do not have an asbestos-related history.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos, a rock of natural origin, was previously used for construction and industrial products around the world. The workers in asbestos-related industries were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos particles can be lodged in the lungs, which can lead to progressive lung disease. This is called asbestosis. Over time the fibers that are trapped can cause mesothelioma as well. Asbestos can also be breathed in or ingested, and the risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses increases with the amount and length of exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma result from occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in many trades, including construction insulation, electrical work, automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally predominantly male-dominated and as a consequence mesothelioma-related cases of males account for 75-80 percent of all cases reported. 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 of cases and asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings becoming more common.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma is caused when asbestos is released in the workplace or found at school or at home. It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand asbestos, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothing of an exposed asbestos worker. Those who experience this type of exposure may have symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, which is often mistaken as lung or heart problems.
Some studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposure, however the results are different. A majority of these studies have been conducted on a small sample size, and between-study heterogeneity has been high. It is essential to conduct additional research to establish the connection between non-occupational asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
Anyone who has had non-occupational asbestos exposure should consult their doctor regarding their asbestos-related history. If they are concerned, they should ask for a mesothelioma examination and referral to a specialist. Mesothelioma specialists can provide patients with the best care and treatment 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 advice on how to file mesothelioma suits to claim compensation from asbestos trust funds.
Secondhand Exposure
While exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only reason to develop this cancer. In fact, there's a small amount of evidence that people can get mesothelioma despite not having directly handled asbestos or employed in an industry that has asbestos-related activities. This is known as secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibres are very small and can adhere to hair, clothing, and skin. Workers can carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home and then transmit them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be inhaled or swallowed, which can lead to mesothelioma.
The mesothelioma type is found more often in women and is usually found in the lungs. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. A shortness of breath is the most typical indication. It can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms, such as lung fluid and swelling in the scrotum.
Pleural mesothelioma is the name used to describe mesothelioma that is found in the lungs. Peritoneal mesothelioma refers to the name for mesothelioma, which affects the stomach wall or the chest wall. This type of mesothelioma can cause a number of symptoms, including abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing and constipation.
Numerous studies have revealed that people with no background of occupational exposure to asbestos can still get mesothelioma because of exposure to harmful fibers. The people who were affected usually lived with someone who was exposed to asbestos. They could have touched the clothing of the asbestos worker or had another contact.
Veterans are at a high risk of mesothelioma because asbestos was used extensively in military bases as well as vehicles and ships. The Navy is especially at risk since asbestos was used to insulate the hull of the ship as well as to protect gun turrets. Asbestos was also often taken home by sailors after their jobs on ships that were affected by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked to a variety of substances. The disease is often linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used for a variety of years in manufacturing. It is a heat-resistant material and tough, which makes it ideal for insulation, brakes and flooring, shingles and many other products. When asbestos is broken it releases dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can remain in the stomach and lungs for a long time, triggering symptoms of mesothelioma.
The most frequent mesothelioma-related symptoms include breathing problems, abdominal pain and chest pain. Asbestos patients might experience these symptoms for 20 to 60 years or more after their first exposure. These symptoms could be mistaken for other diseases, therefore it is essential to consult an expert if you experience these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor of your previous history of asbestos. This can prevent a wrong diagnosis and ensure that you receive the correct treatment.
The most common mesothelioma victims from asbestos exposure are those who have been directly exposed to asbestos, but it is also possible for loved ones to be affected. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or swallow asbestos fibers from a worker's shoes, clothing or even tools. They may be exposed to the particles on their hair or clothing. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families must take care to clean their clothes properly after working around asbestos.
There is a substantial collection of studies that show the connection between exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma, but there is no conclusive evidence yet on the role of other agents. For example there is evidence that the zeolites erionite and chlorosotile can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is present in the soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the rate of mesothelioma in the pleural cavity is high.
Research into the relationship between mesothelioma and exposure to nonasbestos is ongoing. Funnel plots have indicated the possibility of publication bias, and there is a high degree of heterogeneity between studies. However, it's clear that occupational exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
The mesothelioma-related rare disease is a condition in which malignant cells of mesothelium multiply uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and affecting other organs. Although asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma isn't the only risk factor. Other genetic and environmental factors can cause the disease.
In a few cases mesothelioma is seen in people who were not exposed to asbestos. These people are known as non-occupational mesothelioma victims. They are typically exposed through the handling of hazardous household items or clothing by someone who was exposed to asbestos in their home. For example, it is possible for one to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma due to the inhalation of asbestos fibers from clothing belonging to a loved ones. Antioch asbestos lawsuits have shown that these kinds of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer periods of latency and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than in husbands.
Scientists are studying the possibility that mesothelioma-related genetic predispositions could play a role in its development. Recent studies have revealed that mutations in a gene called BAP1 can increase the risk of mesothelioma developing in those who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is significant as it could lead to improved screening methods for those who are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have identified a number of genes that are related to mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma, and they suppress tumor growth. These genes include the large homolog of tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. Some genes, such as BAP1, for instance, BAP1, are inherited from parents. Asbestos was used heavily in the military for a number of years, and veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma in comparison to other occupational groups. The people who served in the Navy and on ships were particularly at risk the most because of the extensive exposure to asbestos in fireproofing, insulation materials, and shipbuilding.