Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer, which generally affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen and heart. The disease is associated with asbestos, but people may not know they have it as it develops years after being exposed. In this article, we’ll talk about the facts around this cancer type and what families should know.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer type which normally develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a layer of tissue which covers the internal organs. According to the CDC in 2020, 614 women died of the disease. Mesothelioma comes in different forms which are named after the area of the body it affects. These include:
- Testicular mesothelioma: This is one of the rarest forms of this cancer. This type affects the lining of the testicals.
- Pericardial mesothelioma: This type of cancer affects the lining around the heart muscles.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma: While rare, it’s more common than testicular and pericardial Mesothelioma and it affects the abdominal lining.
- Pleural mesothelioma: This form of this cancer generally affects the lungs, and is the most common across all diagnosed cases.
Diagnosis of mesothelioma can be challenging, as it normally occurs 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure.
How Does Mesothelioma Develop?
Direct asbestos exposure is the primary source of mesothelioma, and over 3,000 cases of the disease are diagnosed each year according to the American Cancer Society. This naturally occurring mineral was used in the automotive industry, construction industry, and in the ship making industry among others.
When this mineral is cut into, very fine fibers are released into the air which are then inhaled or ingested. Once inside your body, they then lodge into your organs. This can cause inflammation, scarring and damage to the cells, which leads to the development of tumors.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms are subtle and can be mistaken for other less serious conditions. Some of the symptoms can include but aren’t limited to:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Persistent dry cough
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting and nausea
- Weight loss
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Swelling and pain in the testicals
Here’s a full list of mesothelioma symptoms, which may be helpful if you’re experiencing the most common ones above.
Risk Factors and Causes
The risk factor for developing mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. While direct exposure presents the highest risk of developing this cancer, second hand exposure can also cause it as well. The most common occupations which are at high risk are:
- Construction workers
- Firefighters
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- Miners and mill workers
- Mechanics
- Ship builders
Some environmental exposures include:
- Living in buildings which are constructed with asbestos
- Living near mines
- Being a family member of workers who are exposed to asbestos
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
Diagnosis of this cancer is challenging, as it mimics low risk diseases. Image tests such as x-rays, MRIs and CT scans can help detect the disease. Biopsy samples taken from the infected area of the body can be examined for further inspection. Blood tests can show certain markers like mesothelin elevated in the body, but this has to be in combination with a scan or biopsy to form a complete diagnosis.
Treatment of Mesothelioma
Treatment for this cancer is available and life expectancy varies depending on the person and the severity of the disease. The most common type of treatments for this cancer include surgery to remove some of the affected areas in the body, or chemotherapy to help shrink as much of the disease as possible. Immunotherapy can help improve the immune system’s response to cancer, while radiation therapy helps to kill the cancer cells. It’s best to talk to your doctor about your options based on the severity of the disease.
Endnote
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer which occurs after asbestos exposure. If you’ve been exposed, it’s important to have regular checks and let your doctor know your risk factors. With early detection, you have a better outcome of living a long and happy life.