Non Asbestos Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a form of cancer that affects the thin skin that covers the chest or abdomen. Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma, and the risk increases with duration and intensity of the asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma sufferers may be wondering how they came to it. A mesothelioma lawyer can assist them identify potential asbestos exposure sources.
1. Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) or the tummy (peritoneum). It is usually caused by asbestos exposure and takes 20 to 40 years to develop. It is not the same as lung cancer, and is very rare, affecting just one out of 100,000 people in Australia each year.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is composed of tough, microscopic fibers. It was utilized in a myriad of commercial, industrial and residential products including pipes, insulation, drywall, glues, tiles and cement. The most commonly used type of asbestos linked to mesothelioma, called chrysotile, is Chrysotile. The people who work with asbestos on a regular basis are at the highest risk, especially those who were exposed in their workplaces, like shipyard workers, construction workers, asbestos manufacturers and those who handled, mixed or removed asbestos. Men are more likely than women to have been in jobs which exposed them to asbestos, and this could be the reason why more men are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
If you're diagnosed with mesothelioma, your doctor will examine your history and may diagnose you using a number of tools. This includes a physical examination including chest x-rays, and lung function testing. You will be asked about your family, work and cultural history. If fort worth asbestos lawyer suspect you have mesothelioma they will refer you to an expert.
Referrals can vary depending the location of your residence.
There are many variables that could affect the treatment options you have.
There is no cure for mesothelioma, but early diagnosis can improve your prognosis and help you get the treatment you need. If you notice any signs consult your GP. They can arrange for you to visit a specialist and refer you to the most reputable mesothelioma clinic. They will run a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis and assist you choose a treatment that is right for you.
2. Viral Infections
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer, occurs in the linings that surround various organs. It is most commonly found in the lungs. However, it can also be found in the stomach lining (peritoneal peritoneal mesothelioma) or the heart's membrane (pericardial pericardial). In the UK, more than 2,700 people are diagnosed each year with mesothelioma. It's not a cureable cancer however treatment can help control symptoms.
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. The fire-resistant and heat-resistant mineral was used in a variety of building and construction materials prior to its ban in the 1970s. Workers who handled or removed the materials, including miners, electricians plumbers, insulators, pipefitters and remodelers of older houses, are at high risk of exposure.
Exposure to asbestos may cause mesothelioma through inhalation or swallowing tiny pieces of the material. The fibers then can penetrate the mesothelium and cause an enlargement. Typically, these tumors are malignant and can grow to other areas of the body.
The symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not manifest until years after exposure. They can include breathlessness and chest pain, as well as abdominal pain. If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor about any asbestos exposure. They should also request an appointment with mesothelioma specialists for the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers believe that genetics as well as environmental and chemical factors play a part in mesothelioma. Some of these factors may cause cocarcinogens. These are chemicals which increase the cancer-causing power of other chemicals. Other studies have shown viruses, such as the SV40, may be associated with mesothelioma. There is evidence that the talcum powder, utilized more frequently by women than men, may be a factor in the development of the disease.
To better know the causes of Mesothelioma, more research is needed. As more information is uncovered doctors will be able to provide better treatment to reduce the number cases. Asbestos remains the most frequent cause however it is crucial to be aware of non-asbestos risk factors as well. This can help improve the patient experience and stop mesothelioma from forming in the first place.
3. Chemical Exposure
Chemicals are part of everyday life and are used in many industries for production. Chemical usage has increased due to the development of industries and demand for goods and services. This has impacted the environment and worker safety particularly for those who are exposed to chemicals or are in contact with them regularly.
Chemicals can be absorbed into the body via inhalation, ingestion and contact with the skin. Once a chemical has been in the body, it can be less or more toxic depending on how it is processed by the liver. Carbon tetrachloride is a long-lasting solvent that can cause liver damage. Once ingested, some chemicals can be broken down by the body into safer substances. This process is called metabolism.
Exposure to chemicals can cause a variety of health issues including cancer. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the linings of organs and other structures in the body. Mesothelioma is most often seen following asbestos exposure. Exposure to asbestos can trigger pleural or peritoneal cancers, or a combination of both, referred to as biphasic. Symptoms typically appear in the chest wall and lungs, but can also appear in the abdomen and heart.
The signs of mesothelioma are usually not appear for between 20 and 60 years after the initial exposure to asbestos. If symptoms do begin to manifest it is essential to get a mesothelioma diagnosis from a specialist rather than a general oncologist. Mesothelioma specialists are familiar with the different types of asbestos that can cause mesothelioma. They are able to accurately diagnose the disease depending on the individual's history of exposure.
Some people who have been exposed to asbestos aren't aware that they are at risk of developing the disease. Also, their doctor might not recognize mesothelioma based on their history. If you have a family member who has mesothelioma might also have an increased risk of developing this type of cancer. It is essential to speak with a mesothelioma expert regarding your exposure to asbestos and any health issues you are experiencing.
4. Genetics
Research has found that certain genes can increase the mesothelioma risk. A genetic mutation can cause mesothelioma in people who have been exposed to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium- the tissue that covers most internal organs. Asbestos fibres can enter the thin layer of tissue and sharp edges can disrupt the genetic balance of cells over time. Cells that don't have the right balance could duplicate themselves and expand out of control, creating groups of cells that are abnormal. As time passes, these clumps can become tumors that damage surrounding organs and tissues.
Asbestos exposure is the most prevalent mesothelioma-related cause, however other causes exist. For instance, some people have developed mesothelioma following exposure to other minerals, such as silica and Erionite. Others have developed mesothelioma after contact with paint additives that contain asbestos. In the past asbestos paint was used to protect pipes made of metal. Other asbestos-based products include shingles and fireproof fabric.
A genetic mutation on chromosome 3 could also cause mesothelioma. This mutation is caused by a mutation in the BAP1 gene, which regulates the channel that moves calcium within cells. When this gene is altered, calcium levels fall which increases the risk of cancer from carcinogens like asbestos.
Scientists have observed mesothelioma clustering within certain families which includes those who have no known occupational asbestos exposure. The affected family members carry a BAP1 mutation that leads to mesothelioma. In one family with a mesothelioma-linked link the affected members all carried the same BAP1 mutation.
Researchers are trying to discover what causes mesothelioma. The more details doctors have, the better they can diagnose and treat mesothelioma earlier. Recognizing the factors that increase the risk of developing mesothelioma could help in preventing the disease, too.
Smoking and family history are just two of the risk factors that can be changed. Some risk factors however are not permanent. Despite the fact that asbestos exposure has been reduced thanks to the bans on it, mesothelioma cases are increasing across the world. This is probably because environmental and genetic factors are involved in the development of the disease. Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma than women. This is probably because men are more likely to work in jobs in the industrial sector that have asbestos exposure. Also, because wives of asbestos workers could be exposed to the asbestos on the clothes of their husbands.