Mesothelioma – Asbestos as the major risk factor
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the thin layer of tissue, known as the mesothelium that covers most of the internal organs. It is an aggressive and deadly form of cancer. Mesothelioma is classified based on the part of the organ that is affected. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, affecting the lung mesothelium (pleura). Other, rarer forms include peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen), cardiac mesothelioma (around the heart), and testicular mesothelioma (around the testicles).
Research indicates that the majority (80%) of mesothelioma cases are linked to asbestos exposure, recognized as the definitive cause. Inhaling or ingesting fine asbestos particles can lead to their settling in organ linings, causing inflammation and scarring. This process, with a latency period of 5-40 years, can result in DNA damage and the development of cancerous tissue. Individuals with prolonged exposure to asbestos are at a heightened risk of mesothelioma, with diagnoses typically occurring in those aged 65 or older, while it is uncommon in those under 45.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates asbestos causes more than 50% of occupational cancer deaths, primarily affecting workers of old buildings since asbestos insulation was widely used until the 1980s. Mesothelioma is seen mostly among men possibly because more men work in asbestos-related industries such as mining, shipyards and construction. These occupations tend to have more male workers than female. Primary exposure to asbestos fibers occurs in these workplaces, with secondary exposure affecting family members of asbestos workers through contaminated shoes, clothing, skin, and hair. To mitigate exposure, many workplaces implement measures such as showering and changing clothes before leaving work.
Some cases of mesothelioma have been reported in individuals living near asbestos mines. Additionally, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing pleural mesothelioma.
The signs and symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on where the cancer occurs. Pleural mesothelioma can cause chest pain, painful coughing, blood-stained sputum, shortness of breath and unexplained weight loss. Peritoneal mesothelioma can present as abdominal pain, nausea with unexplained weight loss, while pericardial mesothelioma can lead to breathing difficulty and chest pains. Testicular mesothelioma may manifest as a swelling or a mass on a testicle.
It is important for high-risk individuals to be subjected to periodic physical examination including chest x ray and lung function tests. A lung biopsy that can reveal microscopic asbestos fibres in pieces of lung tissue removed by surgery serves as evidence for the final diagnosis.
The average life expectancy following a mesothelioma diagnosis is 18-31 months with treatment. Remarkably, certain patients have survived for 10 years or even longer. Life expectancy is influenced by factors such as the type of mesothelioma, the stage at which it is diagnosed, and the overall health of the patient. Treatment has the potential to enhance survival rates for some patients. Mesothelioma cancer treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or immunotherapy. Additionally, patients may undergo radiation or receive supportive care, known as palliative care. Treatment not only offers relief from symptoms but also contributes to extending the life expectancy of mesothelioma patients.
Preventive measures against asbestos-induced mesothelioma include the use of protective equipment provided by employers and adherence to recommended workplace practices and safety guidelines.
More details can be accessed from www.asbestos.com