Mesothelioma is serious lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, which was used in many products in the past. The use of asbestos has gradually decreased over time, and now it is mainly used as an insulation material. Asbestos can also be found in other materials such as clothing, building materials, brake pads, and even food items. Asbestos exposure may occur through direct contact with the substance or breathing its fumes.
Mesothelioma is a very serious and fatal cancer that affects the thin membrane covering the lungs, heart and other organs in the body.
Mesothelioma can develop in anyone, but people at the highest risk for developing cancer have worked in occupations involving asbestos, such as construction workers, electricians, and factory workers.
One way to reduce your risk of getting mesothelioma is to avoid asbestos exposure. If you have been exposed to asbestos, the best way to reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma is to get treatment for asbestos exposure.
If you are concerned about your risk of getting mesothelioma, you must talk to your doctor about your asbestos exposure. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to get treatment to reduce your risk of developing cancer. This rare cancer is responsible for many deaths, and in the USA alone, it is estimated that about 3000 people are diagnosed annually and above 30000 Worldwide.
Causes of mesothelioma
Research continues to identify several ways genes play a role in mesothelioma: The following factors can raise a person’s risk of developing mesothelioma: Researchers continue to study other possible mesothelioma causes and treatment methods for those diagnosed. Mesothelioma develops due to cell and DNA damage caused by asbestos fibres. Cells are small biological structures that make up every part of the human body. DNA is the hereditary material in our cells passed down from our parents and made up of our genes. DNA contains a code that tells our cells how to function properly; asbestos fibres can damage this code. It isn’t clear what causes the initial genetic mutations that lead to mesothelioma, though researchers have identified factors that may increase the risk. Cancers likely form because of an interaction between many factors, such as inherited conditions, environment, health conditions and lifestyle choices. At this time, the only known mesothelioma cause is asbestos exposure. However, cancer research and clinical trials show that some potential genetic factors can put individuals at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Signs and symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on where cancer occurs.
What are the risks associated with asbestos
exposure?
Several factors can help to determine how asbestos exposure affects an individual. Some of the most common workplaces and jobs that put people at risk of asbestos exposure include:
- Living near large deposits in hilly or mountainous regions. Minimal amounts of the mineral can fill the air in these regions.
- Environmental exposure is the most dangerous near former asbestos mines. The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) reports that occupational exposure is the most common way people come in contact with asbestos. Asbestos regulations have increased recently, which helps to restrict carcinogen use.
However, workplace exposure is still a concern because of the widespread use of asbestos.
- Firefighters and construction workers. These men and women may encounter asbestos when working in older homes and schools. People may be exposed to asbestos in their workplaces, communities, or homes. If products containing asbestos are disturbed, tiny asbestos fibres are released into the air. When asbestos fibres are breathed in, they may get trapped in the lungs and remain there for a long time. Over time, these fibres can accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation, affecting breathing and leading to serious health problems.
Who gets mesothelioma?
Age: Age is also a huge factor in mesothelioma. The disease is rare among people under 45 and mostly affects those aged 65 and above. About 2 out of 3 people within that age bracket are likely to Have it. So it is more likely to occur among people 65 years and above. And the chances of survival among younger adults are much higher than those from 65 and above.
Radiation: There are reports that c can also get mesothelioma through radiation. It is believed that People who are exposed to radiation can also get this rare cancer. And the risk is higher for those exposed to radiation, but it is not common among them.
Gender: mesothelioma is also more likely to affect men than women due to their work. Men are more exposed to asbestos and more likely to work in construction, military and manufacturing sectors. So due to this, they are more susceptible to the disease than their female counterparts. And the survival rate of women is 3 times higher than men.
Race: Studies in the USA have also shown that white people are more susceptible to the disease than their Hispanic or black counterparts. And the chances of survival in whites are extremely low compared to Hispanics and Blacks.
Gene: A genetic mutation which can be passed in families is also
They are believed to be responsible for the disease. It is called BAP1. It simply means that there are chances that c can transfer the disease genetically.
In conclusion, mesothelioma is a rare Cancerous disease which affects people exposed to asbestos and is more common among men, the elderly and those Who work in a certain establishment. Can curtail the disease if adequate diagnosis and testing are carried out on time.