Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that can originate in the lining of organs in the body. There are four types of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma, and it begins in the pleural cavity. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of mesothelioma, beginning in the abdominal cavity. The other two types of mesothelioma are exceedingly rare. Pericardial mesothelioma begins in the lining of the heart, and testicular mesothelioma begins in the testicles. Mesothelioma is aggressive and there is currently no known cure, although there is research and clinical trials that are being conducted that make prognosis more promising.
What Causes Mesothelioma? Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate material that was once used heavily in construction, automotive products, and the shipbuilding industry. It is more common to develop mesothelioma if you were exposed to asbestos for a long period of time, however even low levels of exposure have the potential to cause asbestos-related diseases. When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they are released into the surrounding environment. These particles can be inhaled by those who are working around the fibers.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can travel to areas of the body such as the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. These fibers irritate the cells in the mesothelium and cause inflammation, which then causes a buildup of scar tissue. This scar tissue can lead to cancer. When someone breathes in asbestos fibers, it can take up to 50 years for symptoms of mesothelioma to develop. This is known as the latency period. Many people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are retired and are able to trace their exposure back to their workplace.
Primary Asbestos Exposure
Primary asbestos exposure occurs when someone is directly exposed to asbestos. This usually occurs during the workday. Most mesothelioma cases are due to primary asbestos exposure. Jobs that involved a lot of primary asbestos exposure include:
- Construction
- Shipbuilding
- Auto Mechanics
- Insulation
- Mining
Secondary Asbestos Exposure
This type of exposure occurs when someone is exposed to asbestos fibers secondarily but did not work directly in the environment with asbestos. For instance, someone who worked around asbestos may have the asbestos fibers on their clothes and expose their loved ones by hugging them or by their loved ones washing their clothes.
Therefore, to answer the question “what causes mesothelioma?” We can say, breathing in asbestos fibers. Many companies and manufacturers were aware of the dangers they were putting their employees in by exposing them to asbestos. That being the case, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is possible to get compensated for your diagnosis. There are multiple ways to pursue compensation. Contact us at (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form to find out how we can help you. We help mesothelioma victims in Pennsylvania get their due compensation.
Sources:
https://www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/types-of-cancer/mesothelioma/causes-risks-prevention
