Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer that is known for affecting the lining
of heart, abdomen and lungs. About 2000 to 3000 mesothelioma cases are
diagnosed every single year in the US. This type of cancer takes place
four times more in men as compared to women. It has also been found that
all types of mesothelioma, except the benign one are fatal.
Mesothelioma has various names as per the location where it is diagnosed
in the body. The peritoneum refers to the mesothelial tissue covering
most organs in abdominal cavity of the body. Pleura is membrane which
covers the lungs along with lining the wall of one’s chest cavity. On
the other hand, the pericardium surrounds as well as protects the human
heart. The tunica vaginalis testis is the mesothelial tissue which
surrounds the internal reproductive organs in males while the tunica
serosa uterus surrounds the reproductive organs of the females.
Mesothelioma is mainly caused due to the high exposure of asbestos. It
can even occur among the family members living with an asbestos worker.
This may be because of the asbestos brought home by this worker on his
or her clothing or hair. Even though smoking is not directly associated
with growth of mesothelioma, the blend of asbestos and smoking can
increase the person’s risk of having pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is mainly caused when the asbestos fibers are ingested or inhaled in and so become penetrated in the body cavities thereby causing infection and inflammation. Asbestos is actually a naturally occurring fiber that was earlier used in 20th Century by different industries. But when the general masses were informed about the health hazards linked with this fibrous substance, a number of warnings were given in the mid 1970s to decline the use of this mineral. It is better to consult the medical professional in case you face any of the symptoms like chest discomfort, breathing problems, cough, fever, chest pain, weight loss and easy fatigability.
After the patient starts showing the symptoms and proper diagnosis has taken place, the very next step is to explore different mesothelioma treatments available. Like other cancers, mesothelioma can be treated when early diagnosed. The treatment of this rare cancer is dependent on the place of the tumor and the extent to which it has spread along with the considerations like general health and age of the patient.
Whatever be the stage of cancer, there are many treatments that can be utilized. The popular treatments of this disease include chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Even the experimental procedures such as immunotherapy as well as gene therapy are used on a number of mesothelioma patients.
People suffering from this cancer can use the chemotherapeutic drugs directly into their cavity between the mesothelial layers. So, if you are one of those who are highly exposed to the fibrous content of asbestos, it is recommended that you wear some protective masks and clothing. Needless to say, you should even change the clothes before you leave your workplace in order to avoid the risk of carrying asbestos dust particles home.
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