Key takeaways: The most pertinent risk factor associated with mesothelioma development is asbestos exposure. However, genetic mutations and other carcinogens (like radiation) have been linked to mesothelioma—these cases are extremely rare. The biggest way to mitigate the severity of risk factors is to monitor yourself for mesothelioma symptoms, especially if you know that you’ve been exposed to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Carcinogenesis
Mesothelioma is a fatal cancer of the linings of body cavities, most commonly the lining around the lungs. Scientists and doctors aren’t sure of the exact mechanisms/conditions that lend themselves to mesothelioma development. Despite not knowing the definitive carcinogenesis of mesothelioma, scientists do know that:
- Asbestos exposure is the most pertinent risk factor for developing mesothelioma. “Asbestos” refers to a group of naturally-occurring minerals that used to be used in construction and industrial pursuits. When airborne, individual asbestos fibers can become lodged within body cavities; once inside the body, asbestos fibers can’t be removed or broken down. The body continues to try to remove or break down the fibers, leading to prolonged immune responses. This chronic irritation lends itself to a host of biological disruptions: a compromised immune response, decreased anti tumor capacities, etc. Scientists believe that these disruptions eventually manifest as mesothelioma. This type of exposure—usually occurring occupationally—is believed to account for about 80% of all mesothelioma cases.
- Physical location and occupation matters. If you live near a naturally-occurring site of asbestos (or a man-made site of asbestos, like Ambler, PA), then you’re at a higher risk for developing mesothelioma. If you worked with/near/around asbestos, even if unintentionally, you’re at a higher risk for developing mesothelioma. Again, asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma carcinogenesis.
- Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. There’s a genetic mutation that’s associated with the BAP1 gene—which has tumor suppressant capacities—that has been linked with mesothelioma onset. Researchers discovered that asbestos-induced irritation lends itself to BAP1 mutations in some people. (In other rare cases, people inherit a BAP1 mutation. This makes them susceptible to a host of other cancers that aren’t associated with asbestos.)
- In some rare cases, excess radiation exposure is associated with mesothelioma carcinogenesis. Usually, this radiation was administered to the abdomen or chest and caused genetic mutations (like BAP1) that are associated with mesothelioma carcinogenesis.
Addressing Risk Factors Associated with Mesothelioma
If you know or might reasonably assume that you’ve been exposed to asbestos, there isn’t a way to either screen for or intercept its progression. The best way to address mesothelioma’s risk factors is to stop them at the source. Recent efforts by the Biden-Harris administration to regulate asbestos use in the U.S. has resulted in a ban of the last type of asbestos (chrysotile) regularly used by Americans. This is a massive step in preventing future asbestos-related diseases. If the federal government can restrict asbestos use—which accounts for 80% of all mesothelioma cases—then the occurrence of mesothelioma should decrease in coming generations.
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, tell your doctor. They can make informed decisions regarding screening, yearly tests, and preemptive monitoring of symptoms.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, please call us at (800) 505-6000. We are here to help. You can also fill out our simple contact form for more information.
Sources:
https://www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/types-of-cancer/mesothelioma/causes-risks-prevention
