Kamis, 23 September 2010
asbestos stomach cancer: The Top 8 Causes of Cancer
asbestos stomach cancer: The Top 8 Causes of Cancer: "Cancer has multiple causes. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Environmental factors are generally thought to be responsible for 80% to 90% of all ..."
Top 7 Tips to Prevent Cancer
A complex mix of factors related to environment, lifestyle, and heredity plays a role in the causation of cancer. For example, 80 percent of all cancers are related to the use of tobacco products, to what we eat and drink, and to our exposure to radiation, asbestos, and some of the other cancer-causing agents. There's not much you can do about your genes, but several other key risk factors are under your control. If you identify them and make the necessary changes in your lifestyle early enough, you can substantially decrease your chances of developing a malignancy. Here are some of the risk factors you can do something about:
1. Tobacco
Tobacco is the most preventable cause of mortality in this country. Regardless of whether you chew it, snuff it, smoke it, or inhale someone else's exhaust, tobacco is a killer. In the United States, it is responsible for 85 to 90 percent of all lung cancers, and for one-third of all deaths related to other cancers. The magnitude of the risk depends on the number and kind of cigarettes you have smoked and for how long. A pack-a-day smoker is ten times more vulnerable than a non-smoker. It is never too late to quit. After you do, your risk declines gradually each year.
2. Chronic alcohol abuse
This type of abuse can cause cancer of the liver, as well as of the mouth, throat, and larynx, especially in combination with tobacco. It may also raise the risk of breast cancer. If you are going to imbibe, limit yourself to the equivalent of two drinks a day - and stop smoking.
3. Diet
People who shun fruits and vegetables have roughly twice the incidence of most types of cancer - lung, larynx, oral cavity, stomach, colon, and rectum, bladder, pancreas, cervix, and ovary - than those with the highest intake. Yet only 9 percent of Americans heed the recommendations of the National Cancer Institute and the National Research Council to eat two servings of fruit and three portions of vegetables a day. Seventh-Day Adventists, who don't drink or eat much meat but do consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, have the lowest incidence in the U.S. population. This protective effect is probably due to the antioxidants and folic acid present in fruits and vegetables, which neutralize damage to chromosomal DNA caused by oxygen-free radicals.
4. A high-fat diet
This type of diet is associated with cancer of the breast, uterus, and prostate. The guilty foods are eggs, fatty meat, high-fat salad dressings and cooking oils, and diary products such as whole milk, butter, and most cheeses.
Blueberries have a higher antioxidant capacity than any other fruit or vegetable. They are said to protect against cancer by virtue of their anthocyanins and other natural phytochemicals.
5. A high consumption of soy-based food
Soy-based food such as tofu, may also protect against cancer because of the genistein content. Genistein suppresses the production of proteins that these cells need in order to keep growing. In China and Japan, where people eat lots of soy, there is much less cancer of the breast, colon, and prostate than in this country. Since men with prostate cancer generally have lower blood levels of selenium than their normal counterparts, selenium supplements may protect against this malignancy.
6. Some supplements
Some supplements seem to protect against certain cancers. For instance, colon polyps and this do not recur as often in persons who regularly take multivitamins, calcium supplements, and vitamin E. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is protective against it, presumably because of the beta-carotene content. So take your mother's advice: Eat all the fruits and vegetables you can - and forget the pills.
7. Don't have X-rays
Don't have X-rays any more frequently than is absolutely necessary. I no longer take annual routine chest films on myself. Some dentists are too enthusiastic about X rays. Make sure you really need them before acquiescing.
Raymond Lee Geok Seng is one of the foremost experts in the health and fitness industry and is a writer specializing in body health, muscle development and dieting. He has spent countless of time and efforts conducting research and share his insightful and powerful secrets to benefit men and women all over the world. He is currently the author of the latest edition of "Neck Exercises and Workouts.
1. Tobacco
Tobacco is the most preventable cause of mortality in this country. Regardless of whether you chew it, snuff it, smoke it, or inhale someone else's exhaust, tobacco is a killer. In the United States, it is responsible for 85 to 90 percent of all lung cancers, and for one-third of all deaths related to other cancers. The magnitude of the risk depends on the number and kind of cigarettes you have smoked and for how long. A pack-a-day smoker is ten times more vulnerable than a non-smoker. It is never too late to quit. After you do, your risk declines gradually each year.
2. Chronic alcohol abuse
This type of abuse can cause cancer of the liver, as well as of the mouth, throat, and larynx, especially in combination with tobacco. It may also raise the risk of breast cancer. If you are going to imbibe, limit yourself to the equivalent of two drinks a day - and stop smoking.
3. Diet
People who shun fruits and vegetables have roughly twice the incidence of most types of cancer - lung, larynx, oral cavity, stomach, colon, and rectum, bladder, pancreas, cervix, and ovary - than those with the highest intake. Yet only 9 percent of Americans heed the recommendations of the National Cancer Institute and the National Research Council to eat two servings of fruit and three portions of vegetables a day. Seventh-Day Adventists, who don't drink or eat much meat but do consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, have the lowest incidence in the U.S. population. This protective effect is probably due to the antioxidants and folic acid present in fruits and vegetables, which neutralize damage to chromosomal DNA caused by oxygen-free radicals.
4. A high-fat diet
This type of diet is associated with cancer of the breast, uterus, and prostate. The guilty foods are eggs, fatty meat, high-fat salad dressings and cooking oils, and diary products such as whole milk, butter, and most cheeses.
Blueberries have a higher antioxidant capacity than any other fruit or vegetable. They are said to protect against cancer by virtue of their anthocyanins and other natural phytochemicals.
5. A high consumption of soy-based food
Soy-based food such as tofu, may also protect against cancer because of the genistein content. Genistein suppresses the production of proteins that these cells need in order to keep growing. In China and Japan, where people eat lots of soy, there is much less cancer of the breast, colon, and prostate than in this country. Since men with prostate cancer generally have lower blood levels of selenium than their normal counterparts, selenium supplements may protect against this malignancy.
6. Some supplements
Some supplements seem to protect against certain cancers. For instance, colon polyps and this do not recur as often in persons who regularly take multivitamins, calcium supplements, and vitamin E. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is protective against it, presumably because of the beta-carotene content. So take your mother's advice: Eat all the fruits and vegetables you can - and forget the pills.
7. Don't have X-rays
Don't have X-rays any more frequently than is absolutely necessary. I no longer take annual routine chest films on myself. Some dentists are too enthusiastic about X rays. Make sure you really need them before acquiescing.
Types of Mesothelioma, Cancer From Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer of the mesothelium, a lining that coats the body's internal organs including the heart and the lungs, acquired from the exposure to asbestos or other asbestos materials.
There are three main types of Mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma. Each type has its own signs and symptoms, though some signs and symptoms are identical to these three types. Patients who are suffering from the said disease, usually do not have any idea that they have mesothelioma since some of the obvious symptoms do not normally manifest immediately after the exposure. This is the reason why the disease is complex to diagnose and has a poor prognosis.
Three Main Types of Mesothelioma
1. Pleural Mesothelioma
· One of the most common types of Mesothelioma, affecting the lungs and its protective lining and cavity
· Attacks the respiratory system of the body
· Pleural effusion is the resulting symptom of this type, which has a structure of fluid between the lining and the cavity
· Due to pleural effusion, patient may experience difficulty of breathing, dysphagia, shortness of breath, fever, persistent coughing, sudden weight loss, coughing out of blood and rasping
· with the other types of mesothelioma, this form can take 20-30 years or even more, to show some symptoms in a patient who is directly exposed to asbestos
2. Peritoneal Mesothelioma
· one of the rare types of Mesothelioma, which affects the stomach and the abdomen
· involves the lining which protects the contents of the abdomen, and it also provides a lubricating fluid, to allow the organs to function properly
· it was referred to as diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma, wherein the cancer cell is already spread out
· symptoms include: abdominal pain, body weakness, sudden weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite, constipation and abdominal swelling
· it has a very long latency period, wherein symptoms may not be apparent for a long time after the exposure
3. Pericardial Mesothelioma
· it is the rarest of the types of Mesothelioma, which affects the heart and the cavity that surrounds it
· It is characterized by a tumor in the pericardial area
· patient may suffer from chest pain, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations
· it could take decades or more to manifest these symptoms
The most common victims with one of the types of Mesothelioma are usually people who have history in working in a place with constant exposure to asbestos. One of the most common factors is the absence or limited supply of protective equipment for the workers. Proper protective equipment is necessary when working in a hazardous environment. To prevent acquiring such dangerous disease, workers should demand their companies provide proper protective gears to ensure the safety of workers. Remember, "Prevention is better than cure"
There are three main types of Mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma. Each type has its own signs and symptoms, though some signs and symptoms are identical to these three types. Patients who are suffering from the said disease, usually do not have any idea that they have mesothelioma since some of the obvious symptoms do not normally manifest immediately after the exposure. This is the reason why the disease is complex to diagnose and has a poor prognosis.
Three Main Types of Mesothelioma
1. Pleural Mesothelioma
· One of the most common types of Mesothelioma, affecting the lungs and its protective lining and cavity
· Attacks the respiratory system of the body
· Pleural effusion is the resulting symptom of this type, which has a structure of fluid between the lining and the cavity
· Due to pleural effusion, patient may experience difficulty of breathing, dysphagia, shortness of breath, fever, persistent coughing, sudden weight loss, coughing out of blood and rasping
· with the other types of mesothelioma, this form can take 20-30 years or even more, to show some symptoms in a patient who is directly exposed to asbestos
2. Peritoneal Mesothelioma
· one of the rare types of Mesothelioma, which affects the stomach and the abdomen
· involves the lining which protects the contents of the abdomen, and it also provides a lubricating fluid, to allow the organs to function properly
· it was referred to as diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma, wherein the cancer cell is already spread out
· symptoms include: abdominal pain, body weakness, sudden weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite, constipation and abdominal swelling
· it has a very long latency period, wherein symptoms may not be apparent for a long time after the exposure
3. Pericardial Mesothelioma
· it is the rarest of the types of Mesothelioma, which affects the heart and the cavity that surrounds it
· It is characterized by a tumor in the pericardial area
· patient may suffer from chest pain, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations
· it could take decades or more to manifest these symptoms
The most common victims with one of the types of Mesothelioma are usually people who have history in working in a place with constant exposure to asbestos. One of the most common factors is the absence or limited supply of protective equipment for the workers. Proper protective equipment is necessary when working in a hazardous environment. To prevent acquiring such dangerous disease, workers should demand their companies provide proper protective gears to ensure the safety of workers. Remember, "Prevention is better than cure"
Mesothelioma Cancer and Asbestos
Many people have never heard of mesothelioma cancer because it is rare. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 2,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Compare that to 213,380 lung cancer cases the Institute predicts will be diagnosed in 2007.
Mesothelioma cancer begins in the tissue, called the mesothelieum, that surrounds the lungs, stomach, heart and other organs. The mesothelieum protects these organs with two levels of tissue and a fluid that allows the organs to move. It can be found in the area around any of these organs but is most commonly found in the chest and abdomen area.
Contact with asbestos is the main risk factor. Asbestos can be found in insulation in many buildings. Asbestos can also be found in floor tiles, roofing, dust and rocks.
Most of the use of asbestos in construction products was discontinued after 1989. But the cancer may not be diagnosed until 20 to 50 years after exposure because it takes a long time to develop.
That is why most cases of occur in people in their late 50s and older. According to the American Cancer Society, three-fourths of patients diagnosed are over 65.
Other factors that have been tied to this are:
* Radiation. A material called thorium dioxide that was used in x-rays was found to cause cancer. But this material has not been used for many years.
* Tobacco. Smoking has not been directly associated with this cancer but smoking and asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
* SV40 Virus. This virus was found in polio vaccines in the mid 50s and early 60s. Since symptoms do not develop for 20 to 50 years, it may be some time before it is known if this virus is a risk factor.
The symptoms vary from person to person based on where the affected tissue is located. The overall symptoms include:
* Shortness of breath
* Chest pain
* Abdominal pain
* Abdominal swelling
* Fever
* Anemia
The treatments vary depending on the patient. Many patients have surgery to remove the lining and tissue that is affected. In severe cases, tissue surrounding the chest, a lung or part of the diaphragm may be removed.
Doctors may recommend that some patients have radiation therapy where high energy rays shrink tumors and kill the affected cells.
Another common treatment, chemotherapy, may be recommended but has not been successful in treating patients with mesothelioma. According to the American Cancer Society, anti-angiogenesis drugs which kill these cells by stopping their blood supply are being considered.
The prognosis for patients is grim because the disease is often advanced by the time it is diagnosed. According to the American Cancer Society, the five year survival rate is about 10 percent. Most patients only survive for a year after diagnosis. New treatments and clinical studies are being conducted to improve the survival rate of patients with mesothelioma cancer.
Mesothelioma cancer begins in the tissue, called the mesothelieum, that surrounds the lungs, stomach, heart and other organs. The mesothelieum protects these organs with two levels of tissue and a fluid that allows the organs to move. It can be found in the area around any of these organs but is most commonly found in the chest and abdomen area.
Contact with asbestos is the main risk factor. Asbestos can be found in insulation in many buildings. Asbestos can also be found in floor tiles, roofing, dust and rocks.
Most of the use of asbestos in construction products was discontinued after 1989. But the cancer may not be diagnosed until 20 to 50 years after exposure because it takes a long time to develop.
That is why most cases of occur in people in their late 50s and older. According to the American Cancer Society, three-fourths of patients diagnosed are over 65.
Other factors that have been tied to this are:
* Radiation. A material called thorium dioxide that was used in x-rays was found to cause cancer. But this material has not been used for many years.
* Tobacco. Smoking has not been directly associated with this cancer but smoking and asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
* SV40 Virus. This virus was found in polio vaccines in the mid 50s and early 60s. Since symptoms do not develop for 20 to 50 years, it may be some time before it is known if this virus is a risk factor.
The symptoms vary from person to person based on where the affected tissue is located. The overall symptoms include:
* Shortness of breath
* Chest pain
* Abdominal pain
* Abdominal swelling
* Fever
* Anemia
The treatments vary depending on the patient. Many patients have surgery to remove the lining and tissue that is affected. In severe cases, tissue surrounding the chest, a lung or part of the diaphragm may be removed.
Doctors may recommend that some patients have radiation therapy where high energy rays shrink tumors and kill the affected cells.
Another common treatment, chemotherapy, may be recommended but has not been successful in treating patients with mesothelioma. According to the American Cancer Society, anti-angiogenesis drugs which kill these cells by stopping their blood supply are being considered.
The prognosis for patients is grim because the disease is often advanced by the time it is diagnosed. According to the American Cancer Society, the five year survival rate is about 10 percent. Most patients only survive for a year after diagnosis. New treatments and clinical studies are being conducted to improve the survival rate of patients with mesothelioma cancer.
Mesothelioma Asbestos Diseases
The most common diseases caused by asbestos are asbestosis and pleural disease. The most general forms of asbestos cancer are mesothelioma and lung cancer. The former is also occasionally called mesothelioma cancer or simply "meso".
Asbestos dust is also responsible for numerous types of throat cancer, including pharyngeal cancer, esophageal cancer, and laryngeal cancer. Stomach and colon cancer are two other types of cancer related to asbestos.
It is vital to note that the latency period, which is the period between actually being in contact with the mineral and the onset of asbestos cancer or a disease related to asbestos, can be quite long. In some cases, it can be over 50 years after an individual's first contact with asbestos that symptoms of asbestos cancer or any other asbestos disease is seen. Owing to this latency period, individuals exposed to this mineral decades back are still in jeopardy, today, to catch this illness. A trained medical professional can correctly conclude whether a person has asbestos disease or asbestos cancer. It is prudent for anybody working with asbestos to frequently consult a medical professional.
Asbestosis is another well-known disease caused by inhaling high volumes of asbestos fibers. Protracted gathering of fibers in the lungs can lead to the scarring of lung tissues. The most common complaint by a person who has contracted asbestosis is shortness of breath upon exertion. This condition is also called dyspnea. Also, a dry cough becomes more bothersome as the disease progresses. Asbestosis can lead to many other lung diseases, particularly pneumonia, that has a propensity to target weakened lungs. Furthermore, for individuals with asbestosis, the chances of getting lung cancer are multiplied by about 5 times.
Asbestos dust is also responsible for numerous types of throat cancer, including pharyngeal cancer, esophageal cancer, and laryngeal cancer. Stomach and colon cancer are two other types of cancer related to asbestos.
It is vital to note that the latency period, which is the period between actually being in contact with the mineral and the onset of asbestos cancer or a disease related to asbestos, can be quite long. In some cases, it can be over 50 years after an individual's first contact with asbestos that symptoms of asbestos cancer or any other asbestos disease is seen. Owing to this latency period, individuals exposed to this mineral decades back are still in jeopardy, today, to catch this illness. A trained medical professional can correctly conclude whether a person has asbestos disease or asbestos cancer. It is prudent for anybody working with asbestos to frequently consult a medical professional.
Asbestosis is another well-known disease caused by inhaling high volumes of asbestos fibers. Protracted gathering of fibers in the lungs can lead to the scarring of lung tissues. The most common complaint by a person who has contracted asbestosis is shortness of breath upon exertion. This condition is also called dyspnea. Also, a dry cough becomes more bothersome as the disease progresses. Asbestosis can lead to many other lung diseases, particularly pneumonia, that has a propensity to target weakened lungs. Furthermore, for individuals with asbestosis, the chances of getting lung cancer are multiplied by about 5 times.
Asbestos Induced Abdominal Cancer
Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is the official term used by doctors for a rare but dangerous type of cancer that is generally caused by the ihalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a fibrous fire retardant material that is heavily used in most industries, and as such people who work in these environments are at the highest level of risk.
Because of the fibrous nature of asbestos, it's small fibers can be inhaled easily by people, and it can also cling to the skin and clothes, so people who don't work directly exposed to asbestos can still contract Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma. People who live with those who have been around asbestos are equally at risk and can still contract this cancer.
The most common cause of mesothelioma is inhalation or ingesting the particles or asbestos, which leads to the development of malignant cells in the lining which covers most of the body's internal organs. These malignant cells are what cause the cancer. Thankfully, it is not a contagious disease and is relatively rare, with only around three thousand cases being diagnosed annually worldwide.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma symptoms do not manifest until around twenty to fifty years after asbestos fibers have entered the body, so often the people who are diagnosed are in their middle to late years in life. One of the ways to detect Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is by sudden and rapid loss of weight, and swelling in the stomach area accompanied by sharp pains due to pressure from an increase in body fluids in the abdominal lining.
Another set of symptoms are difficulty in bowel movement, blood clotting, and fevers similar to intestinal flu. The problem with the symptoms of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is that they are often misdiagnosed because they can easily be taken as symptoms of some other, less dangerous illnesses.
Effects
The effects of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma can be ultimately fatal if left unchecked. One of the more dangerous effects is the development of tumors in the stomach lining due to fluid buildup and the presence of the malignant cells in the body. The tumors cause blood clotting, as mentioned, and can spread from the abdominal area upwards to the chest cavity, affecting both the heart and lungs.
A few of the more severe effect of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma include bleeding in the internal organs once the malignant cells grow to a sufficient level. Left unchecked, this internal bleeding is fatal. Pulmonary Emboli is another effect of this sickness, which is the formation of clots of dried or coagulated blood in the lungs. Again, this is ultimately fatal if left unchecked.
Treatment
Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is treated in a variety of fashions, and while it is generally approached like any other cancer, some of the methods commonly used to treat the more common forms of cancer don't prove as effective. For one thing, surgery to remove the malignant cells have shown a very low survivability rate among the patients, with an average life expectancy of only 5 years post operation.
The most successful treatments of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma have stemmed from general chemotherapy as well a a fairly new method known as heated intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This method combines chemotherapy with a heat surgery treatment that removes the malignant cells without causing any damage to the healthy surrounding tissue. The application of heat to the malignant cells also allows a more efficient introduction to the body of the medical agents used in the chemotherapy.
Avoidance/Safety Tips
On a personal level, one of the most obvious ways to avoid exposure to this cancer would be to stay away from places which have high concentrations of asbestos. There are many different forms of asbestos now being developed, and the ones which have been noted as causing Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma were versions primarily developed in the 1970s and 1980s. Modern fire retardant materials are much safer and have been mandated in some parts of the world to replace asbestos entirely.
Since asbestos fibers normally have to be ingested or inhaled to cause mesothelioma then using a face mask and avoiding eating around asbestos is a good safety practice. However, since the fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can actually be carried on skin and clothing, another safety tip is to wear a completely different set of clothing when working around asbestos, and to both remove the clothing and bathe completely after exposure. This minimizes the risk that any fibers will be taken home to one's families after work and consequently avoid abdominal mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure.
Because of the fibrous nature of asbestos, it's small fibers can be inhaled easily by people, and it can also cling to the skin and clothes, so people who don't work directly exposed to asbestos can still contract Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma. People who live with those who have been around asbestos are equally at risk and can still contract this cancer.
The most common cause of mesothelioma is inhalation or ingesting the particles or asbestos, which leads to the development of malignant cells in the lining which covers most of the body's internal organs. These malignant cells are what cause the cancer. Thankfully, it is not a contagious disease and is relatively rare, with only around three thousand cases being diagnosed annually worldwide.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma symptoms do not manifest until around twenty to fifty years after asbestos fibers have entered the body, so often the people who are diagnosed are in their middle to late years in life. One of the ways to detect Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is by sudden and rapid loss of weight, and swelling in the stomach area accompanied by sharp pains due to pressure from an increase in body fluids in the abdominal lining.
Another set of symptoms are difficulty in bowel movement, blood clotting, and fevers similar to intestinal flu. The problem with the symptoms of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is that they are often misdiagnosed because they can easily be taken as symptoms of some other, less dangerous illnesses.
Effects
The effects of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma can be ultimately fatal if left unchecked. One of the more dangerous effects is the development of tumors in the stomach lining due to fluid buildup and the presence of the malignant cells in the body. The tumors cause blood clotting, as mentioned, and can spread from the abdominal area upwards to the chest cavity, affecting both the heart and lungs.
A few of the more severe effect of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma include bleeding in the internal organs once the malignant cells grow to a sufficient level. Left unchecked, this internal bleeding is fatal. Pulmonary Emboli is another effect of this sickness, which is the formation of clots of dried or coagulated blood in the lungs. Again, this is ultimately fatal if left unchecked.
Treatment
Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma is treated in a variety of fashions, and while it is generally approached like any other cancer, some of the methods commonly used to treat the more common forms of cancer don't prove as effective. For one thing, surgery to remove the malignant cells have shown a very low survivability rate among the patients, with an average life expectancy of only 5 years post operation.
The most successful treatments of Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma have stemmed from general chemotherapy as well a a fairly new method known as heated intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This method combines chemotherapy with a heat surgery treatment that removes the malignant cells without causing any damage to the healthy surrounding tissue. The application of heat to the malignant cells also allows a more efficient introduction to the body of the medical agents used in the chemotherapy.
Avoidance/Safety Tips
On a personal level, one of the most obvious ways to avoid exposure to this cancer would be to stay away from places which have high concentrations of asbestos. There are many different forms of asbestos now being developed, and the ones which have been noted as causing Abdominal Asbestos Mesothelioma were versions primarily developed in the 1970s and 1980s. Modern fire retardant materials are much safer and have been mandated in some parts of the world to replace asbestos entirely.
Since asbestos fibers normally have to be ingested or inhaled to cause mesothelioma then using a face mask and avoiding eating around asbestos is a good safety practice. However, since the fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can actually be carried on skin and clothing, another safety tip is to wear a completely different set of clothing when working around asbestos, and to both remove the clothing and bathe completely after exposure. This minimizes the risk that any fibers will be taken home to one's families after work and consequently avoid abdominal mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure.
What You Should Know About Exposure and Mesothelioma Asbestos
Exposure to asbestos has proven to lead to many deadly diseases, the most common of which has been mesothelioma, or mesothelioma asbestos. Asbestos exposure also has history with several non-cancerous respiratory diseases like such as asbestosis.
Asbestos has been used for protection from heat, fire, and as insulation for over two thousand years. It has been mined and used in manufacturing of goods and products since the late 1800's. Up until the 1960s the use and exposure of workers, their families, and local communities to asbestos went pretty much unchecked by any safety regulations. As exposure to asbestos increased, the cases of lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis proportionately increased, impacting the lives of thousands of unknowing workers and family members primarily in the industrialized areas of the U.S., UK and Australia.
Asbestos fibers are used in industry because of their durability, resistance to heat and tensile strength. Asbestos has been used in building insulation in our public buildings and schools for generations. In our homes, appliances, and even clothing. The very reason that makes asbestos such a useful construction component and fire retardant however is the same characteristic that becomes humanly lethal. Asbestos fibers are very fine and tiny filaments that are so small that they can bypass the filtering systems in the human lungs. The inhalation of asbestos fibers in the dust is the primary cause of mesothelioma asbestos cancer. These fibers reach to the most sensitive parts of the lungs and get embedded within the lung tissue where they can lay dormant for as long as 50 years! As these fibers increase in numbers, or those already in the body can become an irritant to the lung tissue and slowly damage the lungs, heart or stomach protective tissue. Such conditions gone diagnosed can lead to mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma or asbestosis.
Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common type of Mesothelioma asbestos cancer. It has affected thousands of laborers in shipyards during World War II. High heat piping used in ship building and heating boilers all were insulated with the installation of asbestos. Miners working asbestos mines, their families and those communities close to those mines were all exposed to the harmful dust and filaments of asbestos. Construction and building workers were exposed to asbestos as they insulated buildings, manufacturing used asbestos in heating units, toasters, clothes driers, gloves; automotive repair mechanics were exposed by the dust from vehicle brake pads and muffler repairs. As these people grew older, and their bodies became less and less resilient to the irritation of the asbestos fibers in their bodies; more and more cases of mesothelioma, asbestosis and pleural mesothelioma began to appear.
Mesothelioma attacks the pleural lining in and around the lungs; it can also damage the peritoneum tissues which surrounds the stomach and the intestinal tract. The protective sac of tissue surrounding the heart; the pericardium is also in harm's way of the ravages of asbestos fibers.
Mesothelioma is generally classified and named by the location in which it is found: Pleural mesothelioma - which encompasses 75% of all cases
Peritoneal mesothelioma - 10%-20% of mesothelioma diagnosises
Pericardial mesothelioma - the rarest, with 5% cases.
Mesothelioma may also be classified by cancer type, other than location of the cancer:
Epithelioid is most common cancer and has the best survival rate.
Sarcomatoid is the most severe yet very rare.
Mixed/biphasic is basically a mixture of Epithelioid cancer and Sarcomatoid cancer
The symptoms of mesothelioma cancer vary according to location of the cancer. It may show a combination of symptoms as well. Pleura, affecting tumors, show symptoms as -wheezing, cough, and/or hoarseness, bloody sputum, anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, pleural fusion (fluid surrounding the lung) and chest wall pain, or pain under the rib cage.
Mesothelioma of the stomach or intestines often doesn't show many symptoms until it reaches the latter stages, they include- mass in the abdomen, weight loss, abdominal pain and/or swelling, Ascites, bowel problems.
There has been exhaustive research for an effective treatment of mesothelioma, unfortunately none has yet to be found. Only treatment attempts to hamper growth of cancer cells is available and include:
1. Surgery to remove all the affected tissues in the body.
2. Radiation therapy targeted to kill the mesothelioma cells in the body.
3. Chemotherapy uses drugs, injections to kill the growth of the cancer cells.
In an attempt to deal with the alarming trend of mesothelioma cancer cases in recent years, several international organizations and government agencies have launched mesothelioma and asbestosis awareness programs, asbestos cancer resource guides, and literature to educate people about the lethal catastrophic effects of this disease. Information for cancer patients and their families to educate themselves how to take care of themselves, reduce risks and early warning signs for early diagnosis.
Asbestos has been used for protection from heat, fire, and as insulation for over two thousand years. It has been mined and used in manufacturing of goods and products since the late 1800's. Up until the 1960s the use and exposure of workers, their families, and local communities to asbestos went pretty much unchecked by any safety regulations. As exposure to asbestos increased, the cases of lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis proportionately increased, impacting the lives of thousands of unknowing workers and family members primarily in the industrialized areas of the U.S., UK and Australia.
Asbestos fibers are used in industry because of their durability, resistance to heat and tensile strength. Asbestos has been used in building insulation in our public buildings and schools for generations. In our homes, appliances, and even clothing. The very reason that makes asbestos such a useful construction component and fire retardant however is the same characteristic that becomes humanly lethal. Asbestos fibers are very fine and tiny filaments that are so small that they can bypass the filtering systems in the human lungs. The inhalation of asbestos fibers in the dust is the primary cause of mesothelioma asbestos cancer. These fibers reach to the most sensitive parts of the lungs and get embedded within the lung tissue where they can lay dormant for as long as 50 years! As these fibers increase in numbers, or those already in the body can become an irritant to the lung tissue and slowly damage the lungs, heart or stomach protective tissue. Such conditions gone diagnosed can lead to mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma or asbestosis.
Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common type of Mesothelioma asbestos cancer. It has affected thousands of laborers in shipyards during World War II. High heat piping used in ship building and heating boilers all were insulated with the installation of asbestos. Miners working asbestos mines, their families and those communities close to those mines were all exposed to the harmful dust and filaments of asbestos. Construction and building workers were exposed to asbestos as they insulated buildings, manufacturing used asbestos in heating units, toasters, clothes driers, gloves; automotive repair mechanics were exposed by the dust from vehicle brake pads and muffler repairs. As these people grew older, and their bodies became less and less resilient to the irritation of the asbestos fibers in their bodies; more and more cases of mesothelioma, asbestosis and pleural mesothelioma began to appear.
Mesothelioma attacks the pleural lining in and around the lungs; it can also damage the peritoneum tissues which surrounds the stomach and the intestinal tract. The protective sac of tissue surrounding the heart; the pericardium is also in harm's way of the ravages of asbestos fibers.
Mesothelioma is generally classified and named by the location in which it is found: Pleural mesothelioma - which encompasses 75% of all cases
Peritoneal mesothelioma - 10%-20% of mesothelioma diagnosises
Pericardial mesothelioma - the rarest, with 5% cases.
Mesothelioma may also be classified by cancer type, other than location of the cancer:
Epithelioid is most common cancer and has the best survival rate.
Sarcomatoid is the most severe yet very rare.
Mixed/biphasic is basically a mixture of Epithelioid cancer and Sarcomatoid cancer
The symptoms of mesothelioma cancer vary according to location of the cancer. It may show a combination of symptoms as well. Pleura, affecting tumors, show symptoms as -wheezing, cough, and/or hoarseness, bloody sputum, anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, pleural fusion (fluid surrounding the lung) and chest wall pain, or pain under the rib cage.
Mesothelioma of the stomach or intestines often doesn't show many symptoms until it reaches the latter stages, they include- mass in the abdomen, weight loss, abdominal pain and/or swelling, Ascites, bowel problems.
There has been exhaustive research for an effective treatment of mesothelioma, unfortunately none has yet to be found. Only treatment attempts to hamper growth of cancer cells is available and include:
1. Surgery to remove all the affected tissues in the body.
2. Radiation therapy targeted to kill the mesothelioma cells in the body.
3. Chemotherapy uses drugs, injections to kill the growth of the cancer cells.
In an attempt to deal with the alarming trend of mesothelioma cancer cases in recent years, several international organizations and government agencies have launched mesothelioma and asbestosis awareness programs, asbestos cancer resource guides, and literature to educate people about the lethal catastrophic effects of this disease. Information for cancer patients and their families to educate themselves how to take care of themselves, reduce risks and early warning signs for early diagnosis.
The Top 8 Causes of Cancer
Cancer has multiple causes.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Environmental factors are generally thought to be responsible for 80% to 90% of all human cancers. The major environmental factors identified so far include:
TOBACCO: Tobacco in various forms of its usage (e.g., smoking, chewing) is the major environmental cause of cancers of the lung, larynx, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, bladder, pancreas and probably kidney. It has been estimated that, cigarette smoking is responsible for more than one million premature deaths each year.
ALCOHOL: Excessive intake of alcoholic beverage leads to esophageal and liver cancer. Beer consumption may be associated with rectal cancer.
DIETARY FACTORS: Smoked fish is related to stomach cancer, dietary fiber to intestinal cancer, beef consumption to bowel cancer, and a high fat diet to breast cancer. Food additives are also some causative agents.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES: These include exposure to benzene, arsenic, vinyl chloride, asbestos, polycyclic hydrocarbons etc. (e)
VIRUSES: Hepatitis B and C virus is reported to be related to hepatocellular carcinoma. Human papilloma virus (HPV) is associated with cancer cervix.
HABITS AND LIFE STYLE: Habits and lifestyle of people may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. Some examples are the established association between smoking and lung cancer, betel chewing and oral cancer, etc. There are several other environmental factors such as sun light, radiation, air and water pollution, pesticides which can cause cancer.
GENETIC FACTORS: Genetic influences have long been suspected. For example, retinoblastoma occurs in the children of the same parent. The Mongol race is more likely to develop cancer (leukemia) than normal children. However, genetic factors are less conspicuous and more difficult to identify.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Environmental factors are generally thought to be responsible for 80% to 90% of all human cancers. The major environmental factors identified so far include:
TOBACCO: Tobacco in various forms of its usage (e.g., smoking, chewing) is the major environmental cause of cancers of the lung, larynx, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, bladder, pancreas and probably kidney. It has been estimated that, cigarette smoking is responsible for more than one million premature deaths each year.
ALCOHOL: Excessive intake of alcoholic beverage leads to esophageal and liver cancer. Beer consumption may be associated with rectal cancer.
DIETARY FACTORS: Smoked fish is related to stomach cancer, dietary fiber to intestinal cancer, beef consumption to bowel cancer, and a high fat diet to breast cancer. Food additives are also some causative agents.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES: These include exposure to benzene, arsenic, vinyl chloride, asbestos, polycyclic hydrocarbons etc. (e)
VIRUSES: Hepatitis B and C virus is reported to be related to hepatocellular carcinoma. Human papilloma virus (HPV) is associated with cancer cervix.
HABITS AND LIFE STYLE: Habits and lifestyle of people may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. Some examples are the established association between smoking and lung cancer, betel chewing and oral cancer, etc. There are several other environmental factors such as sun light, radiation, air and water pollution, pesticides which can cause cancer.
GENETIC FACTORS: Genetic influences have long been suspected. For example, retinoblastoma occurs in the children of the same parent. The Mongol race is more likely to develop cancer (leukemia) than normal children. However, genetic factors are less conspicuous and more difficult to identify.
Lung Cancer - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Lung cancer is the malignant transformation and expansion of lung tissue, and is the most lethal of all cancers worldwide, responsible for 1.2 million deaths annually. It is a leading cause of cancer death in men and women in the United States. Cigarette smoking causes most lung cancers. The more cigarettes you smoke per day and the earlier you started smoking, the greater your risk of lung cancer. High levels of pollution, radiation and asbestos exposure may also increase risk. There are many types of lung cancer. Each type of lung cancer grows and spreads in different ways and is treated differently. Treatment also depends on the stage, or how advanced it is.
Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Lung cancer that originates in the cells of the lungs is called primary lung cancer; however, cancer may also spread to the lung from other parts of the body. Metastatic cancers spread to the lungs most commonly from the breast, colon, prostate, kidney, thyroid gland, stomach, cervix, rectum, testis, bone, and skin (melanoma). More than 90% of primary lung cancers start in the bronchi such lung cancer is called bronchogenic carcinoma. The specific types of lung cancer are small cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. The last three types of lung cancer are often referred to as nonsmall cell lung cancers. Alveolar cell carcinoma originates in the small air sacs of the lung (alveoli). Although alveolar cell carcinoma can occur at a single site, it often develops simultaneously in more than one area of the lung. Less common lung tumors are bronchial carcinoid (which may be cancerous or noncancerous), chondromatous hamartoma and sarcoma. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system; it may start in the lungs or spread to them.
Lung cancer is the rapid growth of abnormal cells in the lung. It can start anywhere in the lungs and affect any part of the respiratory system . When we breathe in, the lungs take in oxygen, which our cells need to live and carry out their normal functions. When we breathe out, the lungs get rid of carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of the body's cells. Cancers that begin in the lungs are divided into two major types, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, depending on how the cells look under a microscope.
Causes of Lung Cancer
1. Breast cancer
2. Colon cancer
3. Rectal cancer
4. Stomach cancer
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
1. Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness.
2. Difficulty swallowing.
3. Fatigue.
4. Loss of appetite or weight loss.
5. Constant chest pain.
6. Breathlessness.
Treatment of Lung Cancer
1. Chemotherapy
2. Radiation therapy
3. Surgery
Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Lung cancer that originates in the cells of the lungs is called primary lung cancer; however, cancer may also spread to the lung from other parts of the body. Metastatic cancers spread to the lungs most commonly from the breast, colon, prostate, kidney, thyroid gland, stomach, cervix, rectum, testis, bone, and skin (melanoma). More than 90% of primary lung cancers start in the bronchi such lung cancer is called bronchogenic carcinoma. The specific types of lung cancer are small cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. The last three types of lung cancer are often referred to as nonsmall cell lung cancers. Alveolar cell carcinoma originates in the small air sacs of the lung (alveoli). Although alveolar cell carcinoma can occur at a single site, it often develops simultaneously in more than one area of the lung. Less common lung tumors are bronchial carcinoid (which may be cancerous or noncancerous), chondromatous hamartoma and sarcoma. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system; it may start in the lungs or spread to them.
Lung cancer is the rapid growth of abnormal cells in the lung. It can start anywhere in the lungs and affect any part of the respiratory system . When we breathe in, the lungs take in oxygen, which our cells need to live and carry out their normal functions. When we breathe out, the lungs get rid of carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of the body's cells. Cancers that begin in the lungs are divided into two major types, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, depending on how the cells look under a microscope.
Causes of Lung Cancer
1. Breast cancer
2. Colon cancer
3. Rectal cancer
4. Stomach cancer
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
1. Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness.
2. Difficulty swallowing.
3. Fatigue.
4. Loss of appetite or weight loss.
5. Constant chest pain.
6. Breathlessness.
Treatment of Lung Cancer
1. Chemotherapy
2. Radiation therapy
3. Surgery
Mesothelioma Cancer Stages Explained
Mesothelioma cancer is a type of cancer that attacks the lungs and chest cavity. Also known as asbestos lung cancer, it forms deadly tumors where mesothelial cancer cells form a protective lining over the lungs, heart, and abdominal organs. It is a type of lung cancer that takes many years to develop and produce symptoms. Roughly 3,000 cases per year (mostly men over the age of 40) are reported. It is estimated that number will grow to about 300,000 cases before 2030.
Types of Mesothelioma Asbestos Cancer
Epithelial mesothelioma is a rare and fatal form of cancer affecting the membrane lining of the chest cavity, heart, lungs, and abdominal cavity. There are three forms of epithelial mesothelioma: the most common is Pleural Mesothelioma, the second most common, Peritoneal Mesothelioma (accounting for only a quarter of the cases), and the rarest form, pericardial mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of this disease involves the pleura, a thin membrane located between the lungs and the chest cavity. The pleura provide a lubricated surface so that the lungs do not rub and chafe against the chest walls. There are two types of pleural mesothelioma the first being 'diffuse and malignant'. This type is cancerous and is generally fatal within a year of diagnosis. The second type is 'localized and benign' and is generally non-life threatening. It can usually be removed through surgery.
Lung Lining cancer is not to be confused with lung cancer. In lung lining cancer, the effected area of the body is called the mesothelium, a thin membrane that covers many of the internal organs of the body. The mesothelium of the lungs is called the pleura. Lung Lining cancer is also sometimes called mesothelioma after the area in which it occurs.
This thin membrane is comprised of two layers - one that surrounds the organ and another that forms an exterior sac around the first layer. Between the layers of the mesothelium is a fluid that allows vital organs to glide easily against objects that come in contact with them.
Localized pleural mesothelioma is not always caused by asbestos exposure. However, if it has spread to other parts of the body, for instance the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs, then it is considered malignant and is more often than not the result of asbestos exposure.
Peritoneal mesothelioma appears as a tumor in the peritoneum membrane of the abdomen. This type of mesothelioma is very rare, comprising less than a fourth of all known cases of the disease. There are no effective treatments for this condition, and most patients live less than a year after diagnosis.
Mesentery cancer is likened to peritoneal cancer (mesothelioma). This cancer primarily affects the sections of the peritoneum that attach different organs to the wall of the abdominal cavity, (i.e. mesogastrium for the stomach, mesojejunum for the jejunum). Mesentery cancer includes all abdominal peritoneal extensions. Tumors rarely originate in the actual mesentery, though it is a frequent route for the spread of mesothelioma through the abdominal cavity.
Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma, affecting the membrane around the heart (called the pericardium or pericardial sac). In this disease, solid masses and effusion (fluid) develop around the pericardium. Not all effusions are strictly related to mesothelioma.
The Causes
Mesothelioma cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers or dust. Workers in the asbestos industry are prime targets for attracting this deadly disease. Asbestos fibers enter the body, either by breathing in the tiny asbestos fibers or by swallowing them. The fibers cause healthy cells to mutate into cancer. Since the body is unable to dispel these fibers, the lungs become inflamed (asbestosis). This condition worsens and eventually becomes malignant. Asbestos exposure is thought to be responsible for roughly 75% of all cases of lung lining cancer.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a very difficult cancer to detect in early stages. The early symptoms tend to be generic and even nonexistent in some cases, and it can take as much as 15 to 50 years after exposure to develop. The first symptom is often constant chest pain, followed by coughing, lung damage, and shortness of breath. Patients who have peritoneal mesothelioma (a less common form of mesothelioma) generally experience abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal swelling, often in addition to the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. They may also develop bowel obstruction or further breathing obstruction.
Stages and Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
There are three staging systems used to determine treatment for mesothelioma: Butchart System, TNM System, and the Brigham System
Butchart Staging System
The Butchart System is the oldest system and the most common. This system concentrates upon determining the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesothelioma into four stages.
Stage I of the Butchart System consists of the presence of mesothelioma in the lining of the right or left lung and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side. Stage II includes the progression of mesothelioma into the chest wall, esophagus, or lung lining on bother sides. There may also be lymph nodes in the chest. The onset of Stage III begins when the mesothelioma surpasses the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. In this stage the cancer may also affect the lymph nodes extending beyond those in the chest. Doctors identify Stage IV, the final stage, when evidence of the spread of cancer to other organs (metastasis) is confirmed.
TNM System
Stage I of the TNM System involves the lining of the right or left lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. At this stage, lymph nodes are not involved. Stage II begins when mesothelioma spreads from the lining of the lung on one side to a lymph node on the same side. At this stage, the cancer may also spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Stage III begins when mesothelioma is present in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side as the primary tumor. In the final stage, Stage IV, the mesothelioma has travelled into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, into the lung opposite the primary tumor, or directly into the organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Metastasis is the final result in this stage.
Brigham System
The Brigham System determines the resectability (the ability to surgically remove) the mesothelioma mass. In Stage I the tumor is resectable, while lymph nodes remain unaffected. In Stage II the tumor remains respectable but the mesothelioma affects the lymph nodes. In Stage III the tumor becomes unresectable. It has penetrated through the diaphragm, or peritoneum. Stage III can occur with or without lymph involvement and extends into the chest wall and heart. Stage IV occurs when doctors discover metastatic disease involving distant organs.
After doctors identify the stage of a patient's malignant mesothelioma, the patient and doctor consider the various treatment options available. Mesothelioma treatment programs are contingent upon many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the cancer, the spread of mesothelioma cancer, the characteristics of the cancer cells under a microscope and the patient's age and concerns.
Types of Mesothelioma Asbestos Cancer
Epithelial mesothelioma is a rare and fatal form of cancer affecting the membrane lining of the chest cavity, heart, lungs, and abdominal cavity. There are three forms of epithelial mesothelioma: the most common is Pleural Mesothelioma, the second most common, Peritoneal Mesothelioma (accounting for only a quarter of the cases), and the rarest form, pericardial mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of this disease involves the pleura, a thin membrane located between the lungs and the chest cavity. The pleura provide a lubricated surface so that the lungs do not rub and chafe against the chest walls. There are two types of pleural mesothelioma the first being 'diffuse and malignant'. This type is cancerous and is generally fatal within a year of diagnosis. The second type is 'localized and benign' and is generally non-life threatening. It can usually be removed through surgery.
Lung Lining cancer is not to be confused with lung cancer. In lung lining cancer, the effected area of the body is called the mesothelium, a thin membrane that covers many of the internal organs of the body. The mesothelium of the lungs is called the pleura. Lung Lining cancer is also sometimes called mesothelioma after the area in which it occurs.
This thin membrane is comprised of two layers - one that surrounds the organ and another that forms an exterior sac around the first layer. Between the layers of the mesothelium is a fluid that allows vital organs to glide easily against objects that come in contact with them.
Localized pleural mesothelioma is not always caused by asbestos exposure. However, if it has spread to other parts of the body, for instance the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs, then it is considered malignant and is more often than not the result of asbestos exposure.
Peritoneal mesothelioma appears as a tumor in the peritoneum membrane of the abdomen. This type of mesothelioma is very rare, comprising less than a fourth of all known cases of the disease. There are no effective treatments for this condition, and most patients live less than a year after diagnosis.
Mesentery cancer is likened to peritoneal cancer (mesothelioma). This cancer primarily affects the sections of the peritoneum that attach different organs to the wall of the abdominal cavity, (i.e. mesogastrium for the stomach, mesojejunum for the jejunum). Mesentery cancer includes all abdominal peritoneal extensions. Tumors rarely originate in the actual mesentery, though it is a frequent route for the spread of mesothelioma through the abdominal cavity.
Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma, affecting the membrane around the heart (called the pericardium or pericardial sac). In this disease, solid masses and effusion (fluid) develop around the pericardium. Not all effusions are strictly related to mesothelioma.
The Causes
Mesothelioma cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers or dust. Workers in the asbestos industry are prime targets for attracting this deadly disease. Asbestos fibers enter the body, either by breathing in the tiny asbestos fibers or by swallowing them. The fibers cause healthy cells to mutate into cancer. Since the body is unable to dispel these fibers, the lungs become inflamed (asbestosis). This condition worsens and eventually becomes malignant. Asbestos exposure is thought to be responsible for roughly 75% of all cases of lung lining cancer.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a very difficult cancer to detect in early stages. The early symptoms tend to be generic and even nonexistent in some cases, and it can take as much as 15 to 50 years after exposure to develop. The first symptom is often constant chest pain, followed by coughing, lung damage, and shortness of breath. Patients who have peritoneal mesothelioma (a less common form of mesothelioma) generally experience abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal swelling, often in addition to the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. They may also develop bowel obstruction or further breathing obstruction.
Stages and Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
There are three staging systems used to determine treatment for mesothelioma: Butchart System, TNM System, and the Brigham System
Butchart Staging System
The Butchart System is the oldest system and the most common. This system concentrates upon determining the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesothelioma into four stages.
Stage I of the Butchart System consists of the presence of mesothelioma in the lining of the right or left lung and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side. Stage II includes the progression of mesothelioma into the chest wall, esophagus, or lung lining on bother sides. There may also be lymph nodes in the chest. The onset of Stage III begins when the mesothelioma surpasses the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. In this stage the cancer may also affect the lymph nodes extending beyond those in the chest. Doctors identify Stage IV, the final stage, when evidence of the spread of cancer to other organs (metastasis) is confirmed.
TNM System
Stage I of the TNM System involves the lining of the right or left lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. At this stage, lymph nodes are not involved. Stage II begins when mesothelioma spreads from the lining of the lung on one side to a lymph node on the same side. At this stage, the cancer may also spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Stage III begins when mesothelioma is present in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side as the primary tumor. In the final stage, Stage IV, the mesothelioma has travelled into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, into the lung opposite the primary tumor, or directly into the organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Metastasis is the final result in this stage.
Brigham System
The Brigham System determines the resectability (the ability to surgically remove) the mesothelioma mass. In Stage I the tumor is resectable, while lymph nodes remain unaffected. In Stage II the tumor remains respectable but the mesothelioma affects the lymph nodes. In Stage III the tumor becomes unresectable. It has penetrated through the diaphragm, or peritoneum. Stage III can occur with or without lymph involvement and extends into the chest wall and heart. Stage IV occurs when doctors discover metastatic disease involving distant organs.
After doctors identify the stage of a patient's malignant mesothelioma, the patient and doctor consider the various treatment options available. Mesothelioma treatment programs are contingent upon many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the cancer, the spread of mesothelioma cancer, the characteristics of the cancer cells under a microscope and the patient's age and concerns.
Mesothelioma Cancer: Early Recognition of Symptoms is Key to Successful Treatment
Symptoms of mesothelioma take many years to become apparent. In other words it has a long latency period. This makes it difficult to diagnose and treat. The person may repeatedly visit the doctor with the symptoms but more often considered as respiratory infections. The non-specific symptoms make it hard for even experienced doctors to make a quick and conclusive diagnosis with mesothelioma patients. Even people exposed to asbestos start showing the manifestation late in their life. By the time, mesothelioma is diagnosed, it is already widespread. However, the awareness of mesothelioma has made people detect it in early stages.
Manifestation of mesothelioma largely depends upon the location size and nature of the tumor. Sign and symptoms also depend upon whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Benign type of mesothelioma usually does not manifest itself. On the other hand, malignant type of mesothelioma has severe symptoms. It is mostly due to the pressure exerted on surrounding soft tissues. The malignancy may invade surrounding tissues or may result in pericardial or pleural effusion. Invasion of the chest wall may lead to chest pain.
The early symptoms to watch out for are:
Pleural mesothelioma
Dyspnoea or shortness of breath along with chest pain is common manifestation of pleural mesothelioma. Pleural effusion caused by collection of fluid between the two linings of lungs and chest cavity may give rise to persistent cough. On chest radiography a build-up of fluid or pleural effusion may be evident indicating viral pneumonia.
The less common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are:
A majority of patients do not show any sign and symptoms until late.Peritoneal mesothelioma
It involves structures like abdomen, stomach cavity, liver, spleen or the bowel. The origin of peritoneal mesothelioma is usually abdomen, from where it spreads to adjoining organs. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are:
The symptoms are a consequence of pressure exerted by the growing mass. This growing tumor can also cause breathing problems, and chest pain in addition to these symptoms. These symptoms result from tumors that lean against the abdominal wall. Mesothelioma in peritoneum, owing to its space occupying tendency may give rise to bowel obstruction, anemia, fever and problems with blood clotting.Pericardial mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is a very uncommon form affecting the pericardium. Pericardium is the cavity between the linings of the heart. The tumor that grows in the tissue surrounding heart tends to spread from there. Pericardial mesothelioma sufferers may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations. Involvement of the membrane around the heart (pericardium) may cause heart rhythm disturbances.
The symptoms for all types of mesothelioma become more acute and obvious with the progression of the disease. In spite of it, it can be mistaken as other disease condition. The only differentiating feature is the history of exposure of asbestos. Therefore, it is critical to investigate one's exposure to asbestos. Symptoms like pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest, shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, cough, fever, sweating, fatigue and weight loss may be very common, but the doctor should elucidate the history of asbestos exposure to rule out the presence of tumor.
Manifestation of mesothelioma largely depends upon the location size and nature of the tumor. Sign and symptoms also depend upon whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Benign type of mesothelioma usually does not manifest itself. On the other hand, malignant type of mesothelioma has severe symptoms. It is mostly due to the pressure exerted on surrounding soft tissues. The malignancy may invade surrounding tissues or may result in pericardial or pleural effusion. Invasion of the chest wall may lead to chest pain.
The early symptoms to watch out for are:
- Hemoptysis or Blood in the sputum
- A cough or a change in cough pattern
- Dysphagia or Difficulty in swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the chest or abdomen
- Significant Weight loss.
Pleural mesothelioma
Dyspnoea or shortness of breath along with chest pain is common manifestation of pleural mesothelioma. Pleural effusion caused by collection of fluid between the two linings of lungs and chest cavity may give rise to persistent cough. On chest radiography a build-up of fluid or pleural effusion may be evident indicating viral pneumonia.
The less common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are:
- Chest pain
- Pain in the lower back
- Difficulty breathing
- Coughing
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Muscle weakness and sensory loss
- Swelling of the face and arms
- Hoarseness of voice
- Coughing up blood
A majority of patients do not show any sign and symptoms until late.Peritoneal mesothelioma
It involves structures like abdomen, stomach cavity, liver, spleen or the bowel. The origin of peritoneal mesothelioma is usually abdomen, from where it spreads to adjoining organs. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are:
- Pain or swelling in the abdomen due to a build-up of fluid
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Bowel obstruction
- Anemia or swelling of the feet
- Abdominal bloating due to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity
- Swelling of the feet
- Fever
- Impaired bowel function
The symptoms are a consequence of pressure exerted by the growing mass. This growing tumor can also cause breathing problems, and chest pain in addition to these symptoms. These symptoms result from tumors that lean against the abdominal wall. Mesothelioma in peritoneum, owing to its space occupying tendency may give rise to bowel obstruction, anemia, fever and problems with blood clotting.Pericardial mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is a very uncommon form affecting the pericardium. Pericardium is the cavity between the linings of the heart. The tumor that grows in the tissue surrounding heart tends to spread from there. Pericardial mesothelioma sufferers may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations. Involvement of the membrane around the heart (pericardium) may cause heart rhythm disturbances.
The symptoms for all types of mesothelioma become more acute and obvious with the progression of the disease. In spite of it, it can be mistaken as other disease condition. The only differentiating feature is the history of exposure of asbestos. Therefore, it is critical to investigate one's exposure to asbestos. Symptoms like pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest, shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, cough, fever, sweating, fatigue and weight loss may be very common, but the doctor should elucidate the history of asbestos exposure to rule out the presence of tumor.
Asbestos - As a Factor Causing Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a complicated syndrome which is caused due to exposure to unsafe asbestos. This cancer spreads in the membrane surrounding the area of lungs, heart and stomach. It takes several years to detect the cause of this disease. Asbestos can be inhaled anywhere, in the place of work or in schools with asbestos walls. Even at home if the clothes are washed with asbestos there are chances of getting this awful disease.
Asbestos occur naturally in the environment in the form of group of minerals. Earlier its use was tremendous because of its strength, effectiveness and its resistance to heat. In 80% cases affected due to this cancer, the main offender is asbestos. When asbestos is burnt, hazardous fibres are released in the air. The linings of lungs build up cancerous cells due to the penetration of these fibres.
There are three types of this malady. The one which causes pain in the chest, chronic cough, croakiness is Pleural-mesothelioma, which many a times is diagnosed as pneumonia. The lungs are affected in this type of cancer. Pericardial-mesothelioma interfere the function of heart membrane followed by symptoms like rise and fall in heart beat, chest pain, and low energy level. The third type which hurtles the stomach cavity is Peritonial-mesthelioma. The symptoms can be pain and uninhibited growth of cancer cells.
Imaging equipment like x-rays and scans are helpful for the diagnosis of this ailment. Though a meticulous series of physical tests is carried out, to get more correctness, Biopsy is suggested. This includes a microscopic examination of a body tissue. Amongst the most recent tests, Mesomark is considered to be the faultless detection test. When the spread of the disease in the body is known, further treatment can be done fast.
Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are the common treatments for this disease. More often two or more cures can be combined to get better results. Surgery is not done in many of the patients due to late diagnosis. With the inventions in medical science, efforts are being made to make the patients live longer with treatments like angiogenesis, immunotherapy and gene therapy.
The treatment for Mesothlioma is high-priced. The patients or family members of victims, often find it unmanageable to go for doctors. Consultation from an Attorney can always help them to get reparation from corporations. Thus the fees for hospital, surgical treatments, chemotherapy and expenses for burial can be arranged with this.
Asbestos occur naturally in the environment in the form of group of minerals. Earlier its use was tremendous because of its strength, effectiveness and its resistance to heat. In 80% cases affected due to this cancer, the main offender is asbestos. When asbestos is burnt, hazardous fibres are released in the air. The linings of lungs build up cancerous cells due to the penetration of these fibres.
There are three types of this malady. The one which causes pain in the chest, chronic cough, croakiness is Pleural-mesothelioma, which many a times is diagnosed as pneumonia. The lungs are affected in this type of cancer. Pericardial-mesothelioma interfere the function of heart membrane followed by symptoms like rise and fall in heart beat, chest pain, and low energy level. The third type which hurtles the stomach cavity is Peritonial-mesthelioma. The symptoms can be pain and uninhibited growth of cancer cells.
Imaging equipment like x-rays and scans are helpful for the diagnosis of this ailment. Though a meticulous series of physical tests is carried out, to get more correctness, Biopsy is suggested. This includes a microscopic examination of a body tissue. Amongst the most recent tests, Mesomark is considered to be the faultless detection test. When the spread of the disease in the body is known, further treatment can be done fast.
Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are the common treatments for this disease. More often two or more cures can be combined to get better results. Surgery is not done in many of the patients due to late diagnosis. With the inventions in medical science, efforts are being made to make the patients live longer with treatments like angiogenesis, immunotherapy and gene therapy.
The treatment for Mesothlioma is high-priced. The patients or family members of victims, often find it unmanageable to go for doctors. Consultation from an Attorney can always help them to get reparation from corporations. Thus the fees for hospital, surgical treatments, chemotherapy and expenses for burial can be arranged with this.
Asbestos Lung Cancer Treatment & Mesothelioma Information
Doctor appointments are critical to make sure you're staying in proper health. However, exposure to asbestos presents an added urgency for routine appointments. Because asbestos related diseases take decades to form, early detection is critical for proper treatment. People who have jobs in industries like construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing are particularly susceptible of contracting these conditions.
Even with the best screening techniques available today mesothelioma often can escape diagnosis. The best thing to do is get screened early and consistently, especially if you had exposure to asbestos. Medical technology has breakthroughs every day and eventually a cure will be found. However, until then, the victims of mesothelioma should take action against those responsible. Contact a lawyer in your state today so you can receive compensation for your suffering.
The affected areas from mesothelioma cancer are the lining of the internal organs in the body. Because of the location of the infected cells, mesothelioma does not respond well to conventional treatments unlike most other forms of cancer. In addition, there are no blatant symptoms of the disease, so doctors cannot properly diagnose the illness until it's significantly advanced. Because of these factors, the effectiveness of many conventional treatments are limited.
When treating mesothelioma, doctors use several treatment options. Surgery, radiation treatments and chemotherapy have been traditional options for slowing the growth of cancerous cells. Doctors dealing with mesothelioma have to plan an innovative method of attack to combat this condition. New treatments like angiogenesis, photodynamic and gene therapy hold new hope for victims of mesothelioma everywhere. Depending on the state and location of the cancer, doctors will choose the best course of action for the circumstances. If it's discovered early enough, doctors can prolong the life of the victim, but sadly cannot cure the disease.
The three main types of malignant mesotheliomas are epithelioid, sarcomatoid and mixed/biphasic. Epithelioid is the most common kind as around 50-70% of all mesothelioma cases reported are this type. Epithelioid also has the best chances of survival. It affects the internal organs and internal surfaces coverings. Sarcomatoid is a much more serious condition as it affects the secondary tissues in the body such as cartilage, muscles, bone and fat. However, this cancer is much rarer, as it only occurs 7-20% of the time. Mixed/biphasic is having both types of the cancer at once, and this makes up 20-35% of the occurrences.
There are three targeted areas that mesothelioma can affect. Pleural mesothelioma affects the pleural cavity around the lungs and is responsible for a majority 75% of all cases diagnosed. Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for 10-20% of all cases and affects the tissues in the abdomen (especially the stomach and intestines). Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form which affects the sac and lining surrounding the heart.
Even with the best screening techniques available today mesothelioma often can escape diagnosis. The best thing to do is get screened early and consistently, especially if you had exposure to asbestos. Medical technology has breakthroughs every day and eventually a cure will be found. However, until then, the victims of mesothelioma should take action against those responsible. Contact a lawyer in your state today so you can receive compensation for your suffering.
The affected areas from mesothelioma cancer are the lining of the internal organs in the body. Because of the location of the infected cells, mesothelioma does not respond well to conventional treatments unlike most other forms of cancer. In addition, there are no blatant symptoms of the disease, so doctors cannot properly diagnose the illness until it's significantly advanced. Because of these factors, the effectiveness of many conventional treatments are limited.
When treating mesothelioma, doctors use several treatment options. Surgery, radiation treatments and chemotherapy have been traditional options for slowing the growth of cancerous cells. Doctors dealing with mesothelioma have to plan an innovative method of attack to combat this condition. New treatments like angiogenesis, photodynamic and gene therapy hold new hope for victims of mesothelioma everywhere. Depending on the state and location of the cancer, doctors will choose the best course of action for the circumstances. If it's discovered early enough, doctors can prolong the life of the victim, but sadly cannot cure the disease.
The three main types of malignant mesotheliomas are epithelioid, sarcomatoid and mixed/biphasic. Epithelioid is the most common kind as around 50-70% of all mesothelioma cases reported are this type. Epithelioid also has the best chances of survival. It affects the internal organs and internal surfaces coverings. Sarcomatoid is a much more serious condition as it affects the secondary tissues in the body such as cartilage, muscles, bone and fat. However, this cancer is much rarer, as it only occurs 7-20% of the time. Mixed/biphasic is having both types of the cancer at once, and this makes up 20-35% of the occurrences.
There are three targeted areas that mesothelioma can affect. Pleural mesothelioma affects the pleural cavity around the lungs and is responsible for a majority 75% of all cases diagnosed. Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for 10-20% of all cases and affects the tissues in the abdomen (especially the stomach and intestines). Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form which affects the sac and lining surrounding the heart.
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