Mesothelioma is a rare disease that can really take a toll on a person, both physically and mentally. In this article I will explain some facts about mesothelioma in order to inform you of some things that you might not already know. Although it is a rare form of cancer, its prognosis is poor, so it is vital to learn about some facts about mesothelioma as well as some warning signs and symptoms.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are four types of mesothelioma.
- Pleural mesothelioma
- Peritoneal mesothelioma
- Pericardial mesothelioma
- Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis
Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma, as it affects about 75% of all victims. It begins in the lining of the lungs, or the pleura. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the side of the chest or lower back
- Trouble swallowing
- Swelling of the face and arms
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of mesothelioma, affecting approximately 20% or less of all patients. It begins in the abdominal cavity. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Swelling or fluid in the abdomen
- Pain in the abdomen
Pericardial mesothelioma begins in the cells that line the heart and is very rare. It affects around 1% of all mesothelioma patients. Symptoms of this type of mesothelioma are:
- Shortness of breath
- Heart murmur
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Pain in the chest
The final type of mesothelioma is mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis. It is exceedingly rare, affecting less than 1% of all mesothelioma victims.
How Many People Get Mesothelioma Each Year?
In the United States
- Around 3,000 people per year
In the UK
- Over 2,700 people per year
In Australia
- Between 700 and 800 people each year
What States in the US Have Some of The Highest Incidence Rates of Mesothelioma?
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Florida
- California
How Do You Get Mesothelioma?
One of the most important facts about mesothelioma is that it is only found to be developed through exposure to asbestos. Different types of asbestos exposure are occupational exposure, environmental exposure, and second-hand exposure.
Occupational Exposure
Common occupations associated with asbestos exposure include:
- Construction
- Insulation
- Electricians
- Painters
- Welders
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Auto mechanics
Environmental asbestos exposure is caused when asbestos is disturbed in a person’s surrounding environment and in turn they inhale it. This person would then be at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. An example of secondhand exposure would be a loved one of someone who works with asbestos occupationally washing their clothes and getting exposed that way.
Although rare, it can be useful to know these facts about mesothelioma so that you are more informed about symptoms and causes. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma it is important to act right away so that the best treatment option can be utilized.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, please call us at 1 (800) 505-6000 for more information. We are here to help asbestos victims in Pennsylvania get the compensation they deserve.
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