Mesothelioma A Cancer Caused by Asbestos

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by asbestos that forms in the lining of the chest or abdomen. This lining is called the mesothelium and it produces a lubricating fluid which allows moving organs, such as the heart and lungs, to move easily against surrounding structures in the body. It is generally believed that mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, either by inhalation or by ingestion.

There are three types of mesothelioma, pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common. Pleural mesothelioma is also known as lung cancer. This type of mesothelioma affects the pleura membrane, the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the chest cavity. It is believed that this type of cancer develops from the inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is rare form of mesothelioma making up less than 30% of all mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma is also knon as abdominal mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma affects the peritoneum which is the membrane that surrounds the abdomen. It is believed that this type of cancer develops from ingestion of asbestos fibers.

Pericardial mesothelioma is the cancer that affects the pericardium, the lining that surrounds the heart. This is the least common form of mesothelioma making up less than 10% of all cases. It is hypothesized that this form of cancer develops when asbestos particles break up into smaller fibers that make their way into the blood stream and eventually become lodged into the pericardium.

Symptoms of mesothelioma do not usually manifest themselves until anywhere from 20 to 50 years AFTER exposure to asbestos. The symptoms can vary but the most common symptoms are:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Coughing
• Pain in chest or abdomen
• Fluid in the chest, lungs, or abdomen
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Inability to sleep
• Husky voice
• Difficulty swallowing

Asbestos’ flexiblity, heat resistance, and high tensile strength made it the material of choice in industrial manufacturing for thousands of products.  Asbestos, as long as it is intact, is not harmful.  However, when it becomes dry and brittle and the particles breakup and become airborne, then there is the possibility of ingesting or inhaling these particles.  These particles then become lodged in the linings of the lungs, abdomen and heart, and over time can cause cancerous tumors to develop.

Because there are so many uses for asbestos, there is a likelihood that exposure to asbestos can be found in the home.  In the pictures to the right, you can see how asbestos has been applied to products that are or were common in many homes.

• Insulation that has been blown into attics and walls was a common use.  Now days, fiberglass insulation is widely used.
• Insulation around pipes and ventilation ducts.  Now days, foam and fiberglass is used.
• Acoustic ceiling tiles, used in drop-down ceilings once contained asbestos.  Now they are a mixture of paper products and fiberglass.
• House siding was used because of its cost effectiveness.  Now days, vinyl commonly used to offset the higher costs of wood and brick.
• Roofing shingles were made with asbestos for its insulating properties.  Now days, an asphalt mixture is more affective.
• Floor tiles used asbestos because of its tensile strength.  Now vinyl and ceramic are better choices.

Make sure you and your family can develop a relationship with your doctor.  Learn about the treatment options available. You should also learn if there is any recommended special diet or exercise routine. 

After learning that you or a loved one has malignant mesothelioma, it’s hard not to fall into a depression. Seek the support of your family and friends and also from support groups.  Often, special bonds can be made when you are around others who are experiencing similar situations.    The foundations listed on the right, can direct you to a support group. 

Next, you need to find out how and where you were exposed to asbestos.  Retain the help of an experienced mesothelioma attorney.  A mesothelioma attorney will ensure you find the answers in regard to your rights.  Because you were exposed to asbestos, there is a question of liability that needs to be answered.

Some difficult decisions are going to have to be made with regard to your family.  A living will should be made as well as any estate planning.  Again, having a lawyer experienced in this matter will be a benefit.  Taking care of your needs and the needs of your family while you can, will give you peace of mind.