What is Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer associated with asbestos exposure. The asbestos fibers get lodged in membranes that surround vital organs of our bodies.


There are three kinds of Mesothelioma:


The most common form is called Pleural Mesothelioma which attacks the pleura or inner lining of the lungs. The asbestos fibers inhaled develop scars causing damage to the cells found in the inner lining. Symptoms tend to be a lack of breath, pains in the chest and retention of fluid in the lungs.


The second type is called Peritoneal Mesothelioma which damages the cells found in the inner lining of the stomach. Symptoms include pain in the abdomen, constipation and feelings of nausea. Cases of this nature are rare.


The third but very uncommon type is called Pericardial Mesothelioma which affects the lining surrounding the heart. The symptoms experienced by sufferers include pains in the chest, palpitations and a mild cough.


Although there is still no cure, there are treatments available to help ease pain and extend a patients lifespan. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation have all been used to combat and reduce the spread of cancerous cells. Early diagnosis usually improves a patient's response to treatment.


The Butman system is a term used to describe different stages of a tumour caused by mesothelioma. The first stage signifies a presence in either the right or left side of the pleura, pericardium or diaphragm. The second stage is where the tumour has spread to both sides, the oesophagus, heart, chest wall or lymph nodes. The third stage is where the cancer has spread from the diaphragm into the peritoneum or abdominal cavity lining and is known as the serious assaulting phase. Stage four indicates the tumour has spread to the other organs through the bloodstream. CAT scans, MRI testing and X-rays are used to determine which stage a patient has reached. This information is vital in deciding the type of treatment that should be used.


Once the consequences of jobs using asbestos were recognised, thousands of people sued for damages. Certain companies were found guilty of concealing medical facts from their employees and were well aware of the potential hazards. As a result, the courts upheld the claims and bankrupted the majority of firms in this field, particularly mining and construction companies.


Any exposure to asbestos fibers can be deadly. Families of workers were also prone to asbestos related illnesses as these fibers were often carried home on clothing or hair. Washing the clothes was particularly dangerous.


There are more than 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma every year in the U.S.A. This number is much larger worldwide. Asbestos is still being used in other countries, potentially exposing hundreds of thousand of people to a cruel death. We can only hope that they find a cure soon.