Mesothelioma is an aggressive and rare form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Mesothelioma is mostly caused by exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral widely used in construction and industrial settings for decades.
Despite the banning of asbestos in many countries, the incidence of mesothelioma remains high due to its long latency period. Here are the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
As noted, mesothelioma is mostly caused by exposure to asbestos, which occurs when asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested. These fibers can then become lodged in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen, damaging the cells and leading to the development of cancer.
Occupational exposure to asbestos is the most common cause of mesothelioma. People who work in industries that use asbestos heavily, such as construction, shipbuilding, and insulation, are at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However, even people who have never worked with asbestos directly can be exposed through secondary exposure, such as through washing the clothes of someone who worked with asbestos.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma are often nonspecific and can take many years to appear. This is because the disease has a long latency period, with symptoms typically appearing 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos.
The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing, and weight loss. These symptoms are often attributed to other less serious conditions, making diagnosis difficult.
Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
For early-stage mesothelioma, treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery involves removing as much of the tumor as possible, while radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body, and it can be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to slow the growth of cancer. Immunotherapy is another option that involves using the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
For later-stage mesothelioma, treatment options are limited, and the focus shifts to improving quality of life and managing symptoms.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that is often caused by exposure to asbestos. The disease has a long latency period, making diagnosis difficult. Treatment options for mesothelioma depend on the stage of the disease and usually involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Early detection is key to improving the chances of successful treatment, especially for those who have been exposed to asbestos. If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms, you should contact a medical professional immediately.
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