Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that has been attributed to previous exposure to asbestos products. It derives its name from the malignant cells that form on the mesothelium, which is a protective coating on most of the body’s internal organs. Cancerous mesothelioma cells are most often found in and around the lungs, because of inhalation and exposure to asbestos particles and fibers.

Asbestosis increases risk of contracting Mesothelioma

Asbestosis is the scarring of lung tissue resulting from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It is a chronic inflammatory medical condition which occurs from long-term, heavy exposure to asbestos. Sufferers often have severe shortness of breath and are at an increased risk of contracting several different types of lung cancer, including mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer associated with asbestos exposure.

How does Mesothelioma affect the body?

When asbestos fibers enter the lungs, they penetrate the lung tissue causing irritation and inflammation. When the asbestos fibers reach the lung’s air sacs, where oxygen is transferred into the blood, the asbestos fibers cause the body’s immune system to respond which provokes an inflammatory reaction. This inflammatory reaction is a chronic reaction, and causes continual inflammation in an attempt to eliminate the asbestos from the lungs. This lung inflammation is called asbestosis. Unfortunately, there is no way for the body to expel the asbestos fibers, many of which are thinner than a human hair, from the lungs. Once inhaled, they remain there forever.

Mesothelioma induced inflammation causes scar tissue to build up inside the lungs, which reduces the body’s ability to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream, as well as the removal of carbon dioxide from the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Asbestosis and Mesothelioma

Because asbestosis causes irritation, inflammation, and scar tissue in the lungs, it affects the transmission of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide, which is essential for the body to function efficiently. The most noticeable symptom of asbestosis is usually the slow onset of shortness of breath from minor exertion. In advanced cases of asbestosis or mesothelioma, this can even cause fatal respiratory failure. Coughing may not be a symptom of asbestosis unless the patient has other respiratory tract diseases.

Who is at risk for Mesothelioma?

Because asbestosis is caused by long-term, heavy exposure to asbestos, people with extensive occupational exposure to the mining, manufacturing, ship building, and handling or removal of asbestos are at risk of developing asbestosis. Prolonged asbestos exposure also brings an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Most cases of asbestosis do not occur until 5-10 years after asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma cases can occur even later than this.

Treatment

There is no cure for asbestosis. Many patients who suffer from asbestosis related shortness of breath require oxygen therapy at home, and may even need to take a portable oxygen canister with them when they leave home. Supportive treatment of symptoms includes removal of lung secretions and mucus from the lungs by postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration. Some medications may be prescribed to thin the secretions for easier removal. However, it is not possible to remove the cause of asbestosis – the asbestos fibers which are in the lungs.

Mesothelioma is often caused by the same asbestos fibers that cause asbestosis, and there is no method for removing the cause – the asbestos fibers found in the lungs.

Preventing Mesothelioma

The most effective method of preventing mesothelioma is avoiding the inhalation of asbestos fibers into the lungs. This can be done by avoiding areas contaminated with asbestos fibers, or by wearing approved safety devices such as masks or inhalers.

Seek professional help if you think you are at risk for mesothelioma

If you believe you may be at risk for mesothelioma, you need to seek professional guidance. A medical doctor can give you mesothelioma and asbestosis screenings and give you more information about your condition.