Non Asbestos Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, affects the thin membrane that covers the abdomen or chest. Asbestos exposure is the most common mesothelioma-related cause, and the risk increases with the duration and intensity of the asbestos exposure.
A person diagnosed with mesothelioma might wonder how it happened. A mesothelioma lawyer can help them identify potential asbestos exposure sources.
1. Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lung's lining (pleura) or the tummy (peritoneum). It is often caused by asbestos exposure, and can take between 20 to 40 years to develop. It is not the lung cancer that affects one person in every 100,000 in Australia each year.
Asbestos is a natural mineral composed of strong, microscopic fibers. It was used in thousands of commercial, industrial and residential products, including drywall, insulation, pipes, glues, tiles and cement. The kind of asbestos that is most frequently associated with mesothelioma lawsuit is the chrysotile asbestos. Workers who work with asbestos on a regular basis are at the greatest risk, especially those who were exposed to asbestos in their workplaces, such as shipyard workers and construction workers, asbestos manufacturers and those who handled, mixed or removed asbestos. Men are more likely than women to have been in jobs that exposed them to asbestos and this could be the reason more men are diagnosed with mesothelioma attorneys.
Your doctor will examine your medical history and utilize a variety of methods to detect mesothelioma. This could include a physical exam, chest x rays and lung function testing. They will also inquire about your work, lifestyle, and family background. If they suspect that you have mesothelioma, they'll refer you to an expert.
The number of referrals you receive will depend the location of your residence.
It can take a while to find a specialist, and there are many factors that could affect your treatment options.
There is no cure for mesothelioma however, early detection can improve your chances of survival and allow you to receive the treatment you require. Speak to your GP whenever you notice any signs. They can arrange for you to see an expert and refer you to the top mesothelioma clinic. They will run a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis and assist you find a treatment that is suitable for you.
2. Viral Infections
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the linings that surround different organs. It is usually found in the lungs, however it can be found in the linings of the stomach (peritoneal peritoneal mesothelioma), or the heart's membrane (pericardial pericardial). In the UK there are more than 2700 patients are diagnosed annually mesothelioma. The cancer is not curable but treatment can control symptoms.
The primary reason for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. The heat- and fireproof mineral was used in the production of a variety building and construction materials until it was banned in the year 1970. Workers who handle or remove these materials, including electricians, plumbers, and miners as well as pipefitters, insulators, and re-modelers of older homes are at risk.
Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma through inhalation or swallowing tiny pieces of the material. These fibers may then penetrate mesothelium, causing a tumor. Typically, these tumors are malignant and can grow to other areas of the body.
Symptoms of mesothelioma typically don't appear until decades after exposure. Shortness of breath, chest pain or abdominal pain are a few of the signs. If you have these symptoms, inform your doctor about any asbestos exposure. They should also ask to be directed to a mesothelioma specialist to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers believe that genetics, as well as chemical and environmental factors play a part in mesothelioma. Some of these factors could cause cocarcinogens - substances that increase the cancer causing potential of other chemicals. Other studies have shown that viruses, such as the SV40 virus, may be associated with mesothelioma. A few studies suggest that talcum, which is more frequently used by women than men, may be a factor in mesothelioma.
More research is needed to better understand the causes of mesothelioma. As more information is uncovered doctors will be able provide better treatment to decrease the number of cases. Asbestos is the most common cause, but it is important to be aware of other asbestos-related risks as well. This will improve the outcomes for patients and help prevent mesothelioma forming in the first place.
3. Chemical Exposure
Chemicals are a part of our daily lives and are used to produce in many industries. Industrialization and the growing need for a variety of products and services has resulted in an increase in chemical use. This has impacted the environment and safety of workers particularly for those who work with chemicals or come into contact with them on a regular basis.
Chemicals can be absorbed by the body through ingestion, inhalation and contact with the skin. After a chemical is taken into the body, it could be less or more toxic depending on the way it is processed by the liver. Carbon tetrachloride is a long-lasting solvent that could cause liver damage. Once ingested, some chemicals can be broken down by the body into safer substances. This process is referred to as metabolism.
Exposure to chemicals can cause cancer and other health problems. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of organs as well as structures within the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma usually develops following exposure to asbestos. Exposure to asbestos can result in mesothelioma pleural, peritoneal mesot or a combination of both, referred to as biphasic mesothelioma. The symptoms typically manifest in the chest wall and lungs, but can also appear in the abdomen and the heart.
The symptoms of mesothelioma typically don't manifest for a period of 20 to 60 years after initial exposure to asbestos. If symptoms do show up they should seek a mesothelioma diagnose from a specialist instead of an oncologist. Mesothelioma specialists are well-versed in the types of asbestos that can cause mesothelioma. They are able to accurately diagnose this condition based on an individual's exposure history.
Many people who have been in contact with asbestos are unaware that they are at risk of developing the disease. Or, their doctor may not diagnose mesothelioma from their history. A family member who suffers from mesothelioma has a higher chance of developing cancer. It is crucial to talk to a mesothelioma specialist regarding your exposure to asbestos and any health issues that you are experiencing.
4. Genetics
Research has found that certain genes may increase the mesothelioma lawsuits-related risk. People with a genetic defect may develop mesothelioma, even after a small amount of asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium, the tissue that covers most internal organs. Asbestos fibres can penetrate the mesothelium's thin layer of tissue, and sharp edges can disrupt the genetic balance of the cells in time. Cells that are not balanced can grow out of control and reproduce themselves creating groups. These clumps may become tumors over time that can affect surrounding tissues and organs.
Asbestos exposure is the most common mesothelioma trigger, but other causes are also present. For example, some people have developed mesothelioma due to exposure to other minerals such as silica and Erionite. Some have developed mesothelioma after contact with a paint additive known as asbestos. Asbestos paint was used in the past to protect pipes made of metal. Other asbestos products included shingles and fireproof cloth.
A genetic mutation in chromosome three can also cause mesothelioma. The cause of this mutation is a mutation in the BAP1 gene. The BAP1 gene controls the channel which transports calcium within cells. If this gene is altered, calcium levels fall and increase the risk of developing cancer due to carcinogens like asbestos.
Scientists have noticed mesothelioma clustering within certain families, including those with no known exposure to asbestos in the workplace. The affected family members have the BAP1 gene mutation that leads them to mesothelioma. In one family with a mesothelioma lawsuit link the affected members all carried the same BAP1 mutation.
Researchers are trying to determine the causes of mesothelioma. The more details doctors have, the better they can diagnose and treat mesothelioma in the early stages. Finding factors that increase the risk of mesothelioma in a person can also help with prevention.
Smoking and family history are just two of the risk factors that can be altered. However, some risk factors are unchangeable. Despite the fact asbestos exposure has declined since its ban, mesothelioma is still increasing in cases across the globe. This is probably due to the combination of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the condition. Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma compared to women. This is due to the fact that men are more likely to work in occupations that expose them to asbestos and because the wives of asbestos workers can be exposed to asbestos through the clothing of their husbands.