Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
Most commonly, mesothelioma develops on the lung linings and abdomen. This rare cancer also can form in the heart's lining (pericardium) or the testes.
Asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. However, some patients diagnosed with mesothelioma do not have a history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in construction and industrial products across the globe. The workers in asbestos industries were exposed to asbestos each day. Asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs, causing progressive lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. As time passes the fibers that are trapped can cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or consumed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases increases with exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma are the result of occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in many trades, including construction, insulation electrical work, automotive maintenance and pipefitting. Since these occupations are dominated by males, 75-80% percent of mesothelioma is diagnosed in males. However, the gradual elimination 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 an increase in cases, with non-occupational exposure becoming more prevalent.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos is released at the workplace or at the home or in schools. The secondhand exposure can also trigger it, such as when a family members touches the clothing of an asbestos worker. This kind of exposure can cause symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breathe, which are often misinterpreted as heart conditions or lung diseases.
Certain studies have found that non-occupational exposure is linked to mesothelioma, however the results are not consistent. Many of these studies were conducted on a small sample size, and the between-study the degree of heterogeneity is high. Further research is needed to establish the causality between non-occupational exposure and mesothelioma.
People who have been exposed to asbestos in non-occupational settings should speak to their doctor about their asbestos history. They should have mesothelioma screening when they are concerned and request a referral to a specialist. Specialists in mesothelioma can offer the most effective treatment and care to improve a patient's outlook. They will analyze medical records, and perform imaging tests to diagnose the disease. They will also give guidance on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to claim compensation from asbestos trust funds.
Secondhand Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent mesothelioma cause. But, it's not the only cause. In fact, there is some evidence that suggests that people may develop mesothelioma even though they never directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry with 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. As a result, workers could bring the hazardous fibers home with them on their work clothes, and then transfer them to family members. These asbestos fibers could be swallowed or inhaled leading to mesothelioma.
This type of mesothelioma is more prevalent in women, and typically occurs in the lungs. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most common sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it may be accompanied by other symptoms like fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is called mesothelioma pleural. Mesothelioma affecting the chest wall, stomach, or is called mesothelioma peritoneal. This type of mesothelioma can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, difficulty in breathing, and constipation.
According to numerous studies, those who have never been exposed to asbestos at work can still develop mesothelioma due to exposure from secondhand sources. They typically resided with someone who had been exposed to asbestos. They may have touched the worker's clothing or had other exposure to asbestos.
Irving asbestos lawyer are at high risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive asbestos use in military bases, vessels and vehicles. The Navy is particularly at risk since asbestos was used to protect the hull of the ship and to fireproof gun turrets. Additionally, sailors often brought asbestos back from their work aboard ships that were contaminated by asbestos.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma has been linked with various substances. However, the condition is often linked to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was used in manufacturing for many years. It is a heat-resistant material and tough, which makes it ideal for insulation, brakes, flooring, shingles, and many other products. When asbestos is broken it releases dust that can be breathed in or swallowed. The asbestos fibers can stay in the stomach or lungs for a long time, triggering mesothelioma-related symptoms.
The most frequent mesothelioma symptoms are chest pain as well as abdominal discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to last for up to 60 years. Symptoms can be mistaken for other diseases, therefore it is important to see your doctor if you exhibit these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor about your previous history of asbestos. This can help prevent an incorrect diagnosis and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment.
Mesothelioma that is caused by exposure to asbestos is most common in people who worked directly with the substance however, it can also affect loved relatives of those who have been exposed. This is known as secondary exposure. Family members could inhale or ingest asbestos fibers from a worker's footwear, clothing or other tools. They could be exposed to asbestos to the particles on their clothing or hair. This is the reason that mesothelioma sufferers as well as their families should clean their clothes after working with asbestos.
There is a large body of literature showing the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma. However there are no conclusive conclusions regarding the role played by other agents. There is evidence that suggests that the chlorosotile and erionite zeolites which can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is found in the soil and rocks in some parts of Turkey where pleural mesothelioma rates are high.
The research on the connection between mesothelioma exposure and asbestos exposure is continuing. Funnel plots suggest the possibility of publication bias and there is a significant level of heterogeneity among studies. However, it is still clear that asbestos exposure from work is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is an uncommon disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells which expand beyond control and invade surrounding tissues. It can be spread throughout the body traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and impacting other organs. Although asbestos is the principal mesothelioma trigger, it is not the sole risk factor. Other genetic and environmental factors can also trigger the condition.
In a few cases mesothelioma has been found in people who were not exposed to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma patients. These individuals typically had an indirect exposure due to the handling of contaminated clothes or home items by an asbestos-exposed person within their household. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma following breathing asbestos fibers in the clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that these kinds of mesothelioma cases are more likely to have longer latency periods and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than in husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma could play a part in the development of the disease. Recent studies have shown the mutation in BAP1 genes increases the risk of mesothelioma among asbestos-exposed individuals. This is significant because it could lead to improved screening methods for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a number of genes are involved in mesothelioma. These genes are often mutated in mesothelioma and inhibit the growth of tumors. These genes include the major tumor suppressor homolog 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
A family history of the disease increases the risk. Certain genes, like BAP1, for instance, BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Asbestos was used heavily in the military for many years and veterans have the highest rates of mesothelioma in comparison to other occupational groups. People who worked on ships or in the Navy were at the highest risk of developing asbestos-related cancer due to exposure in shipbuilding, insulation, and fireproofing materials.