Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is often associated with high and prolonged exposure to asbestos. The disease is characterized by malignant cells that develop in the mesothelium (the protective membrane that surrounds most of the body’s internal organs).

Most cases begin in the pleura (lungs) and peritoneum (stomach and pelvic region). This cancer may also form in the pericardium (heart). Pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma are common forms of this rare cancer.

The Risk Factors

A large number of people who have worked on jobs that exposed them to asbestos dust and fiber have developed mesothelioma. There is some evidence that even the family members or other individuals who lived with asbestos workers can be at risk to develop the diseases due to second-hand exposure to asbestos.

Workers can bring home the asbestos dust/fiber on their hair and clothes. About 2,000 new cases are diagnosed in the US every year. In the past 20 years, the incidence rates have increased. The disease occurs more often in men than in women; but may appear in both men and women at any age.

What is Asbestos?

Used commercially in industry, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined as masses of strong and flexible fibers. Once mined, these fibers are separated into threads to be woven. The woven fibers are used in cement, flooring products, textiles, roof shingles, insulation and brake lining. The dust and the fibers get into the air and can be inhaled or swallowed by workers.

Symptoms and Treatment Options

Symptoms of mesothelioma typically appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos occurred. They often resemble signs of other ailments so mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose without knowing the history of patient and several medical tests (such as CT scan, x-ray, biopsy, MRI, and so on). Common symptoms may include: chest pain, weight loss, fever, shortness of breath, swelling, and pain.

There is no cure but treatment options are: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma and you want more information, you can find articles and videos at the New Jersey Mesothelioma Lawyer Blog.

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