Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that usually results from exposure to asbestos. First, a bit about asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, and the inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to serious illness. In previous years, asbestos has been used for clothing, ovens and wiring, although it is banned in many countries now because of the significant health risks it poses.

Asbestos is most commonly used for insulation in major industry, which is why the people at greatest risk from asbestos exposure are those who have worked in construction or engineering.

Mesothelioma occurs when malignant cells develop in the protective lining of the body’s organs. Mesothelioma cancer can develop in tissue surrounding the lungs and the abdomen.

Mesothelioma cancer usually occurs in the pleura, which are two sets of membranes, or pleural sheets, containing a pleural space filled with a lubricating liquid. This allows for the lungs to expand and retract with ease. Mesothelioma can also affect the heart, which is in close vicinity to the lungs. Mesothelioma in the lungs is known as pleural mesothelioma.

The peritoneum, the tissue lining of the abdomen, is where another lubricating fluid is produced for the benefit of the body’s internal organs. Asbestos can also affect this region in the abdominal cavity, causing peritoneal mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, it is on the increase and over 2,000 people a year are affected by it in the UK, with most cases reported in males due to the predominantly male-occupied jobs that have incured exposure to asbestos in the past. The problem is that the number of cases of mesothelioma cancer is expected to increase because of the popularity of the asbestos industry in the 1970s and 1980s.

Asbestos causes cancer when a person breathes in the tiny fibers, which can make their way into the lining of the lungs or abdomen, thus damaging the cells.

Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include pain in the lower back or chest, coughing, a shortness of breath, excessive weight loss and fever.

Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include pain in the abdomen, sickness, loss of appetite, weight loss and diarrhea.

If you are concerned about mesothelioma or exposure to asbestos, contact your GP urgently. People who contract mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure are often entitled to compensation. You should consult both your solicitor and GP in this case.

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Tags: Cancer //