Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that often forms as the result of asbestos exposure over an extended period of time.
It is important to be informed about mesothelioma to prevent this oftentimes fatal cancer from affecting you and your loved ones.
The following 5 questions are ones that everyone should ask in regards to mesothelioma, and answers that are beneficial to read.
What is Mesothelium?
The mesothelium is the membrane that covers the internal organs of the body and protects them from becoming harmed in any way.
The mesothelium contains two layers; the first one surrounds the organ while the other forms a sac around it. A fluid is released by the mesothelium between the layers, which enables organs, like the heart and lungs, to move easily around nearby structures in the body.
What Risks are Associated with Mesothelioma?
About 70 to 80 percent of mesothelioma cases are due to the exposure of asbestos in humans.
Asbestos is a group of minerals that forms into fibers and is often found in industrial products like cement, brake linings, flooring products and insulation.
Inhaling or swallowing asbestos particles, which typically float in the air, can increase lung cancer risks and other cancers, as well as be detrimental to the mesothelioma.
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (OSHA), has set limits for asbestos in the workplace because of its severe health risks.
What are Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma can oftentimes not develop until 30 to 50 years after exposure but there are some obvious signs that those at risk should be aware of, including:
· Shortness of breath and chest pain
· Weight loss
· Abdominal pain
· Fever
· Trouble swallowing and swelling around the neck
How is Mesothelioma Treated?
Depending on the stage of the cancer and area in which its located, different treatments can be initiated, such as:
· Surgery- Doctors can remove the part of the lining in the chest or abdomen that is effected by the cancerous cells
· Radiation Therapy- High-energy rays can kill cancer and shrink any tumors that have formed
· Chemotherapy- This treatment can help to kill and reduce the amount of cancerous cells in the body
Are There New Treatments to Cure Mesothelioma Being Studied?
Although Mesothelioma is difficult to control, the National Cancer Institute, (NC), is constantly holding clinical trials that help in designing new treatments and are beneficial to research.
Participation in these trials is important for patients suffering from this unique cancer.
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