Mesothelioma - What Causes Mesothelioma Other Than Asbestos?

Asbestos exposure is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. It affects the lung lining (pleural mesothelioma), abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) and the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Other risk factors include radiation treatment for other cancers, genetics and asbestos-like minerals like silica and iron oxide.

Asbestos fibers inhaled, or ingested can cause irritation to healthy tissues for years before mesothelioma tumors develop. Mesothelioma symptoms typically take between 20 - 50 years to begin to appear.

Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos, a grouping of microscopic fibres that was commonly used in construction is the most frequent mesothelioma-related cause. People who are exposed to asbestos most often develop mesothelioma of the pleura, which affects the lining of the lungs (the pleura). However, some people have developed mesothelioma after exposure to other materials such as silica, erionite, and zeolites.

The most frequently reported symptoms of mesothelioma are chest pain, shortness in breath, and the buildup of fluid on the lung. Mesothelioma can also cause abdominal pain, bloating and weight loss. There are many types of mesothelioma such as peritoneal, mesothelial, and esophageal.

Scientists do not know exactly what causes mesothelioma but they are certain that asbestos is a major factor. Exposure to asbestos is believed to trigger mesothelioma, creating abnormal growth of cells and to produce cancerous tumors. Asbestos may also trigger genetic mutations that could increase someone's risk of developing the disease.

There is no cure for mesothelioma. However treatment can prolong life and improve quality of life. To receive the most effective mesothelioma treatment patients should visit an expert as soon as they notice any worrisome symptoms. They should inform their doctor if they have ever been exposed to asbestos. This will allow them to be examined for the disease.

People who are concerned about their risk of mesothelioma need to know that they can speak with mesothelioma attorneys to learn more about compensation options. Compensation can help mesothelioma patients as well as their families pay for treatment and pay for their expenses.

In a perfect world everyone would be able be protected from asbestos exposure in the future. However, asbestos lawyer is still present in many older buildings, especially those that were built before 1999. If you're dealing with asbestos-containing material it is crucial to follow safety regulations. For example wearing protective clothing and breathing apparatus. Additionally those who suspect that they have asbestos in their home should only have it inspected by a certified asbestos inspector to ensure the material is not disturbed. This can lower the risk of mesothelioma lawyer or other asbestos-related diseases. It is important to keep in mind that mesothelioma may still occur despite taking the proper precautions.

Silica

Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, affects the thin tissue layer that surrounds numerous internal organs. It is caused through asbestos exposure, however it can be triggered by exposure to other minerals, such as silica or Erionite. The most frequent form of mesothelioma affects the lung's lining (pleural mesothelioma) however it can also occur in the stomach's lining (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the membrane that covers the heart and testicles (pericardial and testicular mesothelioma). Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed after exposure to asbestos, with patients typically in their 50s and 60s.

The majority of people who develop mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos at work, and most of them were exposed to high levels for a long period of time. Asbestos is a variety of minerals that naturally occur and create long thin fibers. They are extremely durable and withstand heat. It was extensively used throughout the 20th Century in a variety of commercial, industrial and military applications. However, it was phased-out when scientists realized that it could be harmful to health. When it is mined or cut into pieces, asbestos produces dust that contains tiny fibers that are inhaled. These fibers may get stuck in the lungs, causing irritation that leads to mesothelioma.

The signs of mesothelioma do not always apparent until years after exposure to asbestos, which makes it difficult to recognize. It can be a sign of difficulty breathing, persistent coughing and chest pain, or a lump in the chest or abdomen. Only tests can diagnose mesothelioma and the majority of patients are referred to specialists after visiting their GP.

Asbestos is not used anymore, but it's still found in many older structures and household objects. There aren't any mesothelioma lawsuits cases that have been linked to other substances. However those who have been exposed to silica and other minerals may be at risk of developing the disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your doctor.

Erionite

While asbestos is the most frequent mesothelioma-related cause however, it's not the sole mineral linked to the cancer. Other materials like erionite, which is a form of zeolite have also been linked to mesothelioma in a few instances. Erionite, just like asbestos can cause mesothelioma when it is inhaled or consumed.

In the 1970s, a significant mesothelioma incidence was noted in villages in Turkey that contain erionite. In these villages, mesothelioma pleural was responsible for as much as 50% of deaths in a few households.

A team of geologists and environmental scientists, as well as mesothelioma experts, surgeons and physicians, worked together to determine the cause of this rare lung cancer. They discovered that a few families from the Turkish village had a gene mutation that made them vulnerable to mesothelioma related to erionite. The mutations were passed on from generation to generation. Other factors, such as smoking cigarettes or exposure to other asbestos-related substances can also increase a person's risk for mesothelioma.

The mesothelioma triggered by erionite is most likely due to long-term, frequent inhalation of gravel dust containing the material. It was prevalent in rural areas, where road construction and mining were taking place. In Dunn County, North Dakota Erionite exposure is associated with mesothelioma and various respiratory illnesses.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that causes symptoms such as breathlessness (dyspnea) chest pain, fluid on the lung (pleural effusion) and loss of appetite and weight loss. Mesothelioma has no cure, and is usually fatal when it reaches a severe stage.

Asbestos is the only proven mesothelioma-causing agent. Researchers have found that those who have been exposed to silica erionite or other minerals may also develop mesothelioma. Seek medical attention as soon as you can if you suffer from mesothelioma or were exposed to other forms of asbestos. Mayo Clinic offers expert mesothelioma treatment. The team of health experts includes mesothelioma specialists lung transplant surgeons, as well as other experts. They'll collaborate to develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Other Minerals

Asbestos, which occurs naturally, is made of strong and flexible fibers. Asbestos is a substance that can be breathed in by those who live near asbestos when it is disturbed. The tiny asbestos fibers can penetrate the mesothelium that protects the lungs, stomach and the heart. The fibers trigger DNA mutations and tumors over time. Asbestos can be exposed both at work and outside of it. Military personnel who handle or transport asbestos are especially at risk and so are civilians who are exposed to asbestos while working. There are six kinds of asbestos. The most popular are chrysotile or amphibole. Each type has different fibers that look like splinters and can enter the human body in a variety of ways.

asbestos lawyer-related diseases can take years to develop. The first signs are typically respiratory or abdominal problems. The condition can affect any part of the body, however it most commonly affects the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Mesothelioma can also affect the testicles (ascitic mesothelioma) and the lining that surrounds the intestines (sarcomatoid mesothelioma).

About 75% to mesothelioma can be traced to exposure to asbestos. Most of the cases were caused by asbestos exposure at work, however some cases do not have an identifiable cause. The asbestos used in many different products has exposed many people to the dangerous substance. Asbestos exposure can also occur when old homes are renovated or renovated. This is especially relevant when environmental catastrophes such as fires, hurricanes and tornadoes destroy structures with asbestos.

If you suspect mesothelioma, schedule an appointment immediately with your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the outcome of mesothelioma as doctors are able to detect the disease at a time when it is treatable. The more information doctors have about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, the better they will be capable of protecting people.