Asbestos Related Diseases - What Is Mesothelioma?

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral substance that can be extracted from various types of mined ore. There are many different varieties. These materials have long been popular in manufacturing because they are strong, flexible, and resistant to fire.

Chrysotile is composed of wavy fibers and is the most common type of asbestos. It is used to reinforce products such as cement building materials and automotive brake pads. Amosite contains straight, needle like fibers. It is considered especially hazardous to human health. This particular substance is often present in older brands of insulation. The material tends to break into small fragments that can be easily inhaled.

Does Asbestos Exposure Cause Cancer?

Yes. It causes various diseases including lung cancer, asbestosis (scarring of the lungs), and mesothelioma. In 2006, the World Health Organization released these troubling global figures:

• Approximately 125 million people are still being exposed to asbestos where they work
• Over 90,000 people die each year from asbestos related diseases

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium. This is the medical term for the lining that surrounds the internal organs. The lining has different names depending on where it is located. Lining around the lungs is called the pleura while that covering the abdominal organs is called the peritoneum. These are the most common sites for this type of cancer. Here are some of the symptoms:

Pleural Mesothelioma

• Shortness of breath
• Painful breathing
• Persistent and/or painful coughing
• Chest pain

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

• Swollen or painful abdomen
• Bowel obstruction
• Weight loss
• Nausea

• If you may need legal help regarding Asbestos or Mesothelioma,Submit Your Case for a Free Review from an Asbestos Lawyer in your area.

More About This Disease

When asbestos fragments enter the body through the lungs, they can lodge there indefinitely. These tiny particles cause irritation and inflammation. Eventually, they may trigger the formation of tumors. At this time, oncologists do not know whether this is from direct contact with the fibers or from toxins released from the material into the surrounding tissue.

• Recognizable symptoms may not appear for 20-50 years after initial exposure
• Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of getting this type of cancer
• Men are approximately 4 times more likely to have mesothelioma than women
• Over 2,000 Americans die each year from this disease
• 2,000-3000 new patients are diagnosed every year in the U.S.
• Death usually occurs less than 18 months after diagnosis

Who Is At Risk?

Older people who have worked in asbestos mining/processing, shipbuilding, and general construction are at increased risk for developing mesothelioma. This disease can also affect family members of such workers. In addition, many homes and schools still contain insulation made from amosite. This means it is possible that you have been exposed to this material without your knowledge.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is very likely that it was caused by asbestos exposure. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain, and suffering.