Mesothelioma: What is it?

 

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the tissues that line the internal organs, such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that can cause serious damage to the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can damage the mesothelium membranes, leading to the growth of abnormal cells. These abnormal cells can grow rapidly and form a cancerous mass called a mesothelioma tumor.

Mesothelioma: What is it?

Mesothelioma can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Cough

Weight loss

Fever

Night sweats

Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose at first, as its symptoms can mimic those of other conditions. A variety of tests can be used to diagnose mesothelioma, including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, and lung biopsy.

There is no known cure for mesothelioma, but there are a variety of treatments available that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapy.

Mesothelioma is a serious disease, but people with mesothelioma can be helped with the right treatment and support.

Here are some important facts about mesothelioma:

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, affecting about 3,000 people in the United States each year.

Mesothelioma is primarily associated with exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a variety of industrial products for decades.

It can take years or even decades for mesothelioma symptoms to appear after exposure to asbestos.

There is no known cure for mesothelioma, but there are a variety of treatments available that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.