Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue surrounding many of the body’s internal organs, most commonly the lungs (pleura). This deadly disease is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries.
Despite regulations and the reduced use of asbestos in recent years, mesothelioma remains a serious health concern for individuals who have been exposed to asbestos, especially those who worked in industries where asbestos was prevalent.
Understanding mesothelioma, its risks, and how it can affect your life is crucial, particularly if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Here’s what you need to know about this dangerous condition.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral that was once prized for its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne when disturbed. When inhaled or ingested, these fibers can lodge in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, leading to inflammation and scarring. Over time, this damage can cause cells to mutate, leading to mesothelioma.
While asbestos is no longer used as extensively as it once was, many older buildings, homes, and industrial sites still contain asbestos materials, posing a potential risk for anyone who comes into contact with them. This is why mesothelioma is most commonly seen in people who worked in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, or asbestos mining, often several decades after their initial exposure.
Family members of workers exposed to asbestos are also at risk, as asbestos fibers can be carried home on clothing, hair, and skin. This form of secondary exposure can also lead to mesothelioma, even if the family member never worked directly with asbestos.
Mesothelioma vs. Lung Cancer: Understanding the Difference
Although mesothelioma is often associated with the lungs, it is not the same as lung cancer. Lung cancer typically forms in the lung tissue itself, while mesothelioma develops in the lining that surrounds the lungs (pleura).
Both conditions can result from asbestos exposure, but they are distinct diseases with different treatment options and prognoses. In some cases, individuals may be diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure. It is important to understand that mesothelioma is more aggressive and harder to treat than lung cancer, as it tends to be diagnosed at a later stage. The symptoms of mesothelioma, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing, are often mistaken for other, less serious conditions, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Who Is at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
Although mesothelioma is relatively rare, certain groups of people are at a higher risk of developing the disease due to their occupational or environmental exposure to asbestos. The following individuals may face an elevated risk:
- Workers in Asbestos-Related Industries: People who worked in construction, shipyards, insulation installation, mining, or manufacturing of asbestos-containing products are at the highest risk.
- Military Veterans: Veterans, particularly those in the Navy, were often exposed to asbestos while serving, as it was widely used in ships and military equipment.
- Family Members of Exposed Workers: As previously mentioned, secondary exposure to asbestos can occur when family members come into contact with fibers brought home by workers.
- Residents of Asbestos-Contaminated Areas: Individuals who lived near asbestos mines, factories, or other asbestos-contaminated areas may have been exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.
It’s also important to note that the risk of developing mesothelioma increases with the duration and intensity of asbestos exposure. However, even short-term exposure can be enough to cause the disease, particularly if the asbestos exposure is heavy.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms often develop decades after exposure to asbestos, making early detection difficult. The latency period between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma can range from 20 to 50 years. Because of this long latency period, many people are diagnosed at a late stage when the cancer has already spread.
Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (the type affecting the lungs) include:
- Chest pain
- Persistent coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps or swelling in the chest area
In cases of peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting the abdomen), symptoms may include abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
If you have a history of asbestos exposure and experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes, though mesothelioma remains difficult to treat due to its aggressive nature.
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease primarily caused by asbestos exposure, often affecting people who worked in certain industries decades after their exposure. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, or mesothelioma, understanding the risks, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial. Early detection and proper medical care can help manage the disease, while ongoing research continues to search for more effective treatments and potential cures. If you believe you were exposed to asbestos in the past, consult a healthcare professional to monitor your health and ensure timely intervention if necessary.