by What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is both rare and aggressive and develops in the thin layer of tissue known as mesothelium, which surrounds most of the internal organs. The lungs’ lining is affected in the most common type of pleural mesothelioma. The most frequent cause of the disease is inhalation of asbestos.
The process through which asbestos causes mesothelioma
Due to its exceptional resistance to heat and strength, asbestos as a naturally occurring mineral was used in construction, insulation, automotive, and military industries. The inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers can lead to their lodging in the lining of lungs or abdomen. The later development of mesothelioma is caused by inflammation and scarring from these fibers over time.
- Frequent causes of exposure to asbestos
- Insulation, roofing, and flooring in building materials
- Naval and shipyard vessels
- Industrial factories
- Military Bases
- Old buildings and schools
- Household products (before regulations)
Even indirect exposure or short-term contact, such as residing with someone who has worked directly with asbestos, heightens the risks of acquiring mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma’s symptoms
Symptoms typically emerge two decades after asbestos exposure and may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Recurrent bouts of dry coughing
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Weight loss with unknown cause
- Extreme tiredness
- Fluid accumulation (either pleural effusion or ascites
Because these symptoms mimic other illnesses, diagnosis is usually made at a later stage.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The following is how mesothelioma is diagnosed:
- Imaging tests (X-ray, CT scan)
- Biopsy
- Analyzing the blood sample for mesothelioma markers
- Available treatment methods are:
- Surgical removing of the growth or excess fluid
- Chemotherapy – to inhibit the rate of cancerous cell proliferation
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy – a new group of treatments aimed at enhancing the immune system’s ability
Although approaches to improve early detection significantly enhances prognosis, curing mesothelioma cancer remains difficult.
Legal Compensation for Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos diseases victims can seek compensation under certain legal frameworks. This includes:
- Launching a personal injury or wrongful death claim
- Claiming from asbestos trust funds
- Veteran’s benefits (for soldiers who have been exposed during their service)
- Collaborating with a skilled mesothelioma attorney enables one to claim reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income, and pain endured.
- Preventing Asbestos Exposure.
- Although many countries have banned or heavily regulated the use of asbestos, older buildings still contain them. Therefore to reduce exposure:
- Do not disturb old insulation or tile material
- Use certified professionals for asbestos removal
- Wearing of proper protective equipment (PPE) in dangerous places
- Be aware of the presence of asbestos at the workplace.
Final Thoughts
This disease is devastating due to inability to treat and restrict quantifiable damages, identifying distinct cause in individual cases being goes unrecognized.
