15 Reasons To Not Ignore Mesothelioma Non Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of mesothelioma cases occur on the lung linings and abdomen. This rare cancer also can form in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or in the testes.
Asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Certain mesothelioma patients do not have a prior history of exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in construction and industrial products all over the world. The workers in asbestos-related industries were exposed asbestos each day. Asbestos fibres can become lodged in the lungs and cause progressive lung disease. This is referred to as asbestosis. Over time, these trapped fibers can cause mesothelioma as well. Asbestos is also inhaled or eaten and the risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases rises depending on the duration and amount of exposure.
The majority of mesothelioma cases are caused by occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in various trades, including construction insulation, electrical work, automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally predominantly male-dominated, and as a result, male mesothelioma cases account for 75-80 percent of all cases reported. 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 a shift in the number of cases, with asbestos exposure outside of the workplace becoming more common.
Non-occupational mesothelioma may occur when asbestos is released from the work environment or found in the school or home surroundings. Secondhand exposure can also cause it, such as when a family member is exposed to the clothes worn by an asbestos worker. This type of exposure can cause symptoms such as chest pain or a shortness of breathe that are often mistaken for heart conditions or lung ailments.
Some studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposures, but the results differ. Many of these studies were conducted on a limited sample size, and between-study heterogeneity has been high. It is necessary to conduct additional research to establish the connection between asbestos exposure in non-occupational settings and mesothelioma.
People who have experienced non-occupational asbestos exposure should speak with their doctor about their asbestos-related history. If they are concerned, they should ask for a mesothelioma examination and referral to an expert. Mesothelioma specialists are able to provide patients with the best care and treatment options to improve their odds of survival. They will review medical records and conduct imaging tests to determine the disease. They will also provide advice on how to file mesothelioma lawsuits to receive compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma, it's not the only factor that can cause you to develop this cancer. In fact, there is some evidence that suggests that people may develop mesothelioma despite not having directly handled asbestos or worked in an industry that involved asbestos-related activities. This is known as secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibers are small and are able to stick to hair, clothing and skin. Workers can carry harmful fibers in their work clothes at home, and then pass them on to family members. These asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma if they are inhaled or consumed.
This mesothelioma type occurs more often in women and is usually found in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most frequent sign is a shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it is often associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs or swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma which occurs in the lungs is referred to as pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that is affecting the chest wall or stomach is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. A patient suffering from this type of mesothelioma can be afflicted by a variety that include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
Several studies have reported that people with no history of occupational exposure to asbestos may get mesothelioma because of exposure to harmful fibers. They typically lived with someone who was exposed to asbestos. They could have touched the clothing of the asbestos worker, or had other contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive asbestos used in military bases, ships and other vehicles. The Navy is particularly at risk due to asbestos being used to insulate the hull the ship and to fireproof gun turrets. In addition, sailors frequently brought home asbestos from their jobs aboard ships that were contaminated by the material.
Environmental Exposure
A variety of substances have been linked to mesothelioma. Nevertheless, the disease is often linked to exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used for many years in manufacturing. The mineral is heat-resistant and durable which makes it suitable for insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring, and many other products. Asbestos is broken down to dust, which can be inhaled and swallowed. These fibers can remain in the stomach or lungs for years, triggering mesothelioma symptoms.
The most frequent symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, abdominal discomfort and difficulty breathing. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to last for up to 60 years. It is important to consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. It is also important to inform your doctor of your past history of asbestos. This can help avoid a false diagnosis and ensure that you receive the proper treatment.
The most common victims of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure are those who worked directly with asbestos but it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is called secondary exposure. Family members can inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on a worker's clothes, shoes or tools. They could be exposed to asbestos by someone who brings home these particles on their hair or clothing. This is why mesothelioma patients and their families should always ensure that they clean their clothes properly after working with asbestos.
There is a significant collection of studies that show the connection between exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma. However, there aren't any definitive conclusions yet on the role of other agents. There is napa asbestos law firm to suggest that chlorosotile and erionite zeolites, can cause mesothelioma. Erionite is present in soil and rocks from certain regions in Turkey where the incidence of mesothelioma pleural is high.
The study of the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is ongoing. Funnel plots show the possibility of publication bias and there is a large level of heterogeneity between studies. It is clear that asbestos exposure is the biggest mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare condition caused by malignant mesothelial cells that grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body by traveling through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and impacting other organs. Asbestos is the most common cause, but it's not the only factor. Other environmental and genetic factors can cause the condition.
In some instances mesothelioma has been found in people who had no direct exposure to asbestos. They are known as non-occupational mesothelioma sufferers. They were usually exposed indirectly by the handling of contaminated clothing or household items by someone who was exposed asbestos in their home. It is possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma after inhaling asbestos fibers from clothing of a family member. Studies have shown that these kinds of mesothelioma patients tend to have longer latency periods and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than in husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic susceptibility could play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that the mutation of BAP1 gene increases the risk of mesothelioma among people who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is especially important because it could be the basis for improved screening procedures for those who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered a number genes that are linked to mesothelioma. Some of these genes are involved in suppressing the growth of tumors, and are often mutated or altered in mesothelioma patients. These genes include the major homolog of tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and the NF2.
People with a family history of mesothelioma are at greater chance of contracting the cancer. This is due to certain genes, such as the BAP1 gene, can be passed down from the parents. Asbestos was used heavily in the military for a number of years and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rate compared to other occupational groups. People who worked on ships and in the Navy were at highest risk due to asbestos exposure in shipbuilding, insulation and fireproofing materials.