A look at factors that can lead to mesothelioma
Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. It continues to devastate families and individuals by exerting tremendous physical, emotional, and financial strain. Several forms of cancer affect humans, and they are categorized depending on which part of the body they affect. Lung cancer, for instance, affects the lungs while breast cancer deals with the breast. One that very few people know about is mesothelioma. This type of cancer affects the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of the internal organs. The different types of mesothelioma that exist are pleural mesothelioma that affects tissues around the lungs and peritoneal mesothelioma that affects tissues around the abdomen, heart, and testes. Mesothelioma Cancer Network is among the few organizations that offer support to those affected.
It takes twenty to sixty years or more for mesothelioma to develop after exposure. Many people still find it challenging to detect whether they are suffering from the disease, given the overlapping nature of its symptoms. Some signs attributed to the two types of mesothelioma are; chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, abdominal swelling, and nausea. If you exhibit such symptoms, it is advisable to visit a doctor for a diagnosis. As much as this condition is treatable, in most cases, it’s never curable.
Like any other disease or condition, some factors precipitate or increase the risk of getting mesothelioma.
Work in the Auto Industry
Woking in the auto industry and being exposed to a wide range of conditions and substances can lead to health conditions. Injuries can occur from dealing with the manual handling of heavy objects, slipping or tripping is common, and exposure to polluted air and chemicals can occur. Asbestos is a material that auto industry workers can encounter that can lead to mesothelioma years after exposure. Employers in the auto industry must be aware of hidden dangers such as asbestos and dangerous chemicals and fumes, and take the proper precautions to ensure their workers are safe.
Asbestos Exposure in the Home
Asbestos happens to be the number one leading cause of mesothelioma. It’s common for older homes to have asbestos in their building materials. Undisturbed asbestos isn’t typically a problem, but when asbestos fibers are released into the air it is nearly impossible to avoid inhaling the dangerous asbestos fibers that can lead to serious health complications. If you’re doing any home projects such as knocking down walls or tearing up old flooring, you must consider the possibility of asbestos and be careful. In many cases, getting your home materials tested for asbestos before undergoing a project can save your life. If asbestos is detected, it’s best to hire a professional company to help remove it safely.
Radiation Therapy to the Chest
Several documented clinical cases where a patient who underwent radiation therapy to the chest ended up testing positive for mesothelioma. The most common type being pleural mesothelioma.
There are, of course, prevention measures that can assist in keeping this condition at bay. It has to start with establishing whether you are exposed to asbestos in any way and if so, then find a way of protecting yourself. For those who are in employment, ensure you adhere to the employer’s safety regulations. Putting on face masks would help in such situations. Some houses have asbestos roofing; it is better not to remove the asbestos because, in the process, tiny fibers of the material are released. However, when there is a pressing need to remove them, seek qualified experts in this field.
Just because mesothelioma is not a common condition does not mean that it doesn’t take a toll on people’s lives. Probably, a more considerable percentage of those who end up with it are victims of ignorance. There is a need for governments and other health bodies with influence to start thinking about sensitization. There is a lot of information on the internet about this condition but coordinating sensitization campaigns is equally essential.