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salt lake city asbestos attorney and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can be observed, including weight loss and fatigue. There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most frequent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases. The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. For decades, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry in which it was utilized for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident within your body. Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members can inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no charge, no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.