Mesothelioma

For those familiar with Lung Cancer, many people are aware of the fact that smoking is a direct contributor to this horrible disease. With more than 80% of cancer deaths occurring from Lung Cancer, it is imperative that everyone takes the steps necessary to prevent this disease from occurring. Most obviously, the first precaution that may be taken to prevent Lung Cancer is to avoid cigarette, pipe, and cigar smoke at all costs. This includes avoiding second hand smoke as well.

Yet, there is another type of Lung Cancer, that isn’t a result of smoking- Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare type of Lung Cancer that is caused by Asbestos. Though this is rare, the use of Asbestos in many industries has made Mesothelioma a very familiar name to many. The Mesothelium is a membrane that covers the outer layer of the heart, lungs, and abdomen. When it is used to refer to the heart, the term Pleural Mesothelioma is used. Basically, this means Cancer of the Lungs.

For those who have worked with Asbestos, Mesothelioma may take many years to develop. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for people to go between 20-50 years before developing symptoms of Mesothelioma. The majority of people diagnosed with Mesothelioma Lung Cancer are men who are 60 years and older. There is no question that Asbestos is the cause of Mesothelioma. Asbestos is a mineral that was used in abundance in many different industries. It wasn’t until the 1980’s that the effects of Asbestos were taken into consideration and the material was banned. Today, many people continue to work with Asbestos, however there are numerous safety precautions and protective gear that one must wear to ensure that they are adequately protected from breathing in the harmful Asbestos fibers.

Mesothelioma occurs when the Asbestos fibers implant themselves in the lining of the lungs, and cause the lung cells to mutate. The mutated cells divide and replicate and Mesothelioma develops. The symptoms of Mesothelioma include breathlessness, painful chest, wheezing, hoarseness, severe coughing, and coughing up blood. Though these symptoms may also signify many other conditions, it is imperative that anyone who was previously exposed to Asbestos be tested for Mesothelioma.

To test for Mesothelioma the patient will have a thorough physical exam. The doctor will also inquire about any past history that involves exposure to Asbestos. If the doctor suspects Mesothelioma he or she will then order a series of X-rays. Along with the X-rays, a CAT or CT Scan may also be ordered. These scans give a complete and accurate picture of the lungs and will allow the physician to see if there are any abnormal growths or thickening on the lungs. If the doctor determines that there are abnormal cells on the lungs, he or she will then order a biopsy. A biopsy allows the doctor to remove part of the lung for further examination. Once the Biopsy is complete, the doctor will have a greater accurate picture of the degree or staging of the cancer. Once the degree of Cancer is known, treatment may be prescribed.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma you may be entitled to compensation if your cancer is the result of being exposed to asbestos. Find out more about your legal options by speaking with a mesothelioma attorney to see if you have grounds to file suit.