Mesothelioma and Non Asbestos Exposure
The majority of the time, mesothelioma is found on the lung linings and abdomen. The rare cancer can also develop in the tissue lining the heart (pericardium) or testes.
Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. However, some people diagnosed with mesothelioma don't have any history of asbestos exposure.
Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used in construction and industrial products worldwide. Workers in asbestos industries were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, which can cause lung disease. This is known as asbestosis. Over time, these trapped fibers can cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can be breathed in, ingested or even absorbed through the skin. The risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases rises with exposure.
Most cases of mesothelioma result from occupational exposure. Asbestos was used in many trades, including construction insulation and electrical work, as well as automobile maintenance and pipefitting. These occupations are generally heavily populated by males and, as a result mesothelioma-related cases of males comprise 75-80 percent of all cases reported. However, the gradual elimination of asbestos in the United States and other first-world countries has decreased on-the-job exposure. This has resulted in a shift of cases and non-occupational asbestos exposure increasing in frequency.
Non-occupational Mesothelioma can be caused by asbestos is released at the workplace or found at the home or in schools. Exposure to asbestos from the outside can cause it, for example when a family members touches the work clothes of a asbestos worker. The people who suffer from this type of exposure may experience symptoms like breathing problems or chest pain, which is often mistaken for heart or lung conditions.
Some studies have linked mesothelioma with non-occupational exposures, but the results differ. The studies were conducted with very few participants, and the heterogeneity between studies was quite high. It is necessary to conduct more research in order to confirm the link between non-occupational asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.
Those with non-occupational exposure should discuss their asbestos background with their doctor. If Hillsboro asbestos attorney are concerned, they should ask for mesothelioma screening and a referral to a specialist. Specialists in mesothelioma can provide the most effective treatment and care to improve a patient's prognosis. They will look over medical records, and carry out imaging tests to diagnose the disease. They will also provide guidance on how to file a mesothelioma suit to obtain compensation from an asbestos trust fund.
Secondhand Exposure
Although asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma not the only factor that can cause you to develop this disease. In fact, there is a small amount of 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 called secondary or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos fibres are very small and are able to stick to hair, clothing, and skin. Workers can carry dangerous fibers in their work clothes at home, and then pass them on to family members. The asbestos fibers that are scattered around can be swallowed or inhaled which can lead to mesothelioma.
This mesothelioma type occurs more often in women and usually in the lung. It can also affect the chest wall or abdomen. The most commonly reported symptom is shortness of breath (dyspnea) and it can be associated with other symptoms such as fluid in the lungs or a swelling in the scrotum.
The mesothelioma that occurs in the lungs is known as mesothelioma of the pleural region. Mesothelioma that is affecting the stomach or chest wall is referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneal region. A patient suffering from this type of mesothelioma can experience a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and constipation.
Several studies have reported that individuals with no previous history of exposure to asbestos may get mesothelioma because of exposure to asbestos through secondhand fibers. Typically, these individuals have lived with someone who was exposed to the dangerous substance. They could have worn the clothing of an asbestos worker or had other contact with the asbestos worker.
Veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma due to the extensive use of asbestos in military bases, ships and other vehicles. The Navy is at a higher risk since asbestos was used in the hull and gun turrets of ships to protect them from fire. Additionally, sailors often brought asbestos back from their work aboard vessels that were contaminated with the material.
Environmental Exposure
Mesothelioma is linked to various substances. The disease is often associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was used in manufacturing for a long time. The mineral is heat-resistant and strong, making it ideal for use in insulation, brakes, shingles flooring, and many other products. Asbestos is broken down to dust that can be inhaled and swallowed. These fibers can remain in the stomach or lungs for years, and trigger mesothelioma symptoms.
The most frequent mesothelioma-related symptoms include breathing problems, abdominal pain and chest pain. Asbestos exposure can cause these symptoms to last for up to 60 years. The symptoms can be misinterpreted as other ailments, so it is essential to consult your doctor if you exhibit these symptoms. It is also critical to inform your doctor of your previous history of asbestos. This will prevent a faulty diagnosis and ensure that you receive the correct treatment.
The most common mesothelioma victims from asbestos exposure are those who worked directly with asbestos however it is possible for loved ones to be affected. This is referred to as secondary exposure. Family members may inhale or swallow asbestos fibers on the clothing of a worker, tools or shoes. They could be sprayed on the to home by someone who is wearing or having their hair. This is the reason mesothelioma sufferers and their families should always be sure to clean their clothing after working with asbestos.
There is a significant body of literature that shows an association between exposure to nonasbestos and mesothelioma. However there is no conclusive evidence yet regarding the role played by other agents. There is evidence to suggest that zeolites, namely erionite and chlorosotile, can cause mesothelioma. Erionite can be found in soil and rocks of certain parts in Turkey where the incidence of pleural mesothelioma is high.
The research on the connection between mesothelioma and nonasbestos exposure is continuing. Funnel plots show the possibility of publication bias and there is a significant level of heterogeneity among studies. It is evident that asbestos exposure is the biggest mesothelioma-related risk factor.
Genetics
Mesothelioma is a rare disease caused by malignant mesothelial cells which grow out of control and invade surrounding tissues. It can also spread throughout the body passing through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and impacting other organs. Although asbestos is the primary mesothelioma trigger, it isn't the only risk factor. The condition could also be triggered by other environmental and genetic factors.
Some mesothelioma cases have been seen in people who didn't directly expose themselves to asbestos. These are referred to as non-occupational mesothelioma victims. They were usually exposed indirectly through the handling contaminated clothing or household items by anyone who was exposed to asbestos in their home. For example, it is possible for someone to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma based on the inhalation of asbestos fibers from clothing belonging to a loved ones. Research has shown that these types of mesothelioma cases tend to have longer periods of latency and are more likely to be diagnosed in wives than husbands.
Scientists are currently investigating the possibility that mesothelioma's genetic predisposition might play a role in the development of the disease. Recent studies have revealed that mutations in a gene called BAP1 increases the risk of mesothelioma among people who are exposed to asbestos. This finding is significant as it could lead improved screening procedures for people who are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Researchers have discovered that a range of genes are linked to mesothelioma. These genes are usually mutated in mesothelioma and suppress the growth of tumors. These genes include large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) and NF2.
A family history of the disease can increase the risk. Certain genes, like BAP1, for instance, BAP1 which is passed down from parents. Asbestos was extensively used in the military for a number of years and veterans have the highest mesothelioma rates in comparison to other occupational groups. Those who served in the Navy and on ships were particularly at greatest risk because of the extensive exposure to asbestos in fireproofing, insulation materials and shipbuilding.