Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It’s a terrible diagnosis that leaves patients and their families with many questions. Talk to your doctor and find a specialist to answer all your most important questions.
Mesothelioma Basics
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer and a devastating diagnosis. You probably have a lot of questions. We’ve put together the most helpful mesothelioma information to help guide your decision making process.
What Is Mesothelioma?
This is one of the most common questions since mesothelioma is considered a rare disease. Malignant mesothelioma is cancer in the mesothelium, a double layer of tissue that lines the body’s organs.
The most common type of mesothelioma affects the pleura, the tissue around the lungs. However, mesothelioma can affect several parts of the body, including the heart and abdomen.
In most cases, people affected by mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos while on the job and via products that contain asbestos-containing products. Companies that supplied asbestos and asbestos-containing products are usually liable for damages if they provided no warnings regarding their products.
As a result, several asbestos trust funds have been set up to compensate people suffering from mesothelioma due to the negligence of others. Over $30 billion has been set aside in trust funds.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Trust funds with more than $30 billion are available right now for those diagnosed with an asbestos disease. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on qualified mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma often doesn’t show worrying signs for many years. When it does, those symptoms are similar to more common, less severe illnesses. Some of the earliest noticeable signs of pleural mesothelioma, the most common form, include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest pains
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdomen and causes:
- Abdominal swelling and discomfort
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The only known cause of and leading risk factor for mesothelioma is prolonged asbestos exposure. In some rare instances, victims may get mesothelioma after exposure for only a short period.
Most mesothelioma victims get the disease by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers in the workplace.
Who Is Most at Risk of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma victims range from oil workers, factory workers, teachers, military personnel, mechanics, ship workers, construction crews, and more. Anyone exposed to asbestos daily is capable of getting the disease.
Men get mesothelioma at higher rates than women. This is most likely because the jobs that previously used asbestos were worked more by men than women.
When Should I See My Doctor About Mesothelioma?
If you know or suspect you were exposed to mesothelioma, you should talk to your doctor about it. They can discuss your risk factors, symptoms to watch for, and recommended health screenings. If you have symptoms of mesothelioma, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Is There a Cure for Mesothelioma?
At this time, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are a variety of treatment plans available, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and alternative treatments that help kill cancerous cells and put the disease into remission.
Can I Survive Mesothelioma?
Although there is no cure for the disease, treatments are available. Many mesothelioma patients prolong their lives while managing the pain and symptoms through aggressive treatment.
Most victims don’t experience the first symptoms of mesothelioma until decades after asbestos exposure. But, the sooner you can get a diagnosis, the sooner you can start treatment. Earlier treatment increases the possibility of surviving.
Who Is the Longest-Living Person With Mesothelioma?
Although rare, some people achieve remission with mesothelioma and long outlive their prognosis. Paul Kraus is known for being one of if not the longest-living person with a mesothelioma diagnosis. He is thriving decades after his diagnosis.
Does Anything Make Mesothelioma Worse?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that will progress often despite treatment. However, some factors can make it worse, including ongoing asbestos exposure and cigarette smoking.
Understanding the Difference: Mesothelioma vs. Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer are two distinct diseases, both linked to asbestos exposure, yet they differ significantly in their nature, origin, and progression.
Mesothelioma: A Rare and Aggressive Cancer
- Origin and Location: Mesothelioma primarily affects the mesothelium, a protective lining covering many internal organs. It most commonly targets the pleura, the membrane encasing the lungs, but can also occur in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) and other regions.
- Cause and Risk: Almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure, mesothelioma occurs when inhaled asbestos fibers become lodged in the mesothelium, eventually leading to cellular damage and malignancy.
- Symptoms and Progression: Symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup around the lungs. Mesothelioma typically has a slow onset, with symptoms appearing decades after exposure.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis usually involves imaging tests, biopsies, and biomarker studies. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, though the prognosis remains generally poor due to late-stage detection.
Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer: More Common but Diverse
- Origin and Location: Unlike mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer originates in the lung tissue itself. It resembles other forms of lung cancer and may not be exclusively caused by asbestos.
- Cause and Risk: While asbestos is a significant risk factor, other factors like smoking play a crucial role, which can either independently cause lung cancer or exacerbate the risks associated with asbestos exposure.
- Symptoms and Progression: Symptoms may include persistent cough, coughing up blood, and respiratory distress. Unlike mesothelioma, lung cancer related to asbestos may appear sooner after exposure and is influenced by lifestyle choices such as tobacco use.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnostic methods include imaging scans, tissue biopsies, and lung function tests. The treatment regimen depends on the cancer’s stage and includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, often offering better recovery prospects compared to mesothelioma.
Key Distinctions
- Cellular Origin: Mesothelioma originates from the mesothelium; lung cancer arises from lung tissues.
- Risk Factors: Mesothelioma is almost solely attributed to asbestos, while lung cancer has multiple contributors.
- Prognosis and Detection: Mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in a poorer prognosis, whereas lung cancer may be detected earlier and treated more effectively.
Understanding these differences can assist in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies for those affected by asbestos exposure. Always consult medical professionals for advice specific to individual health conditions.
Understanding the Difference: Mesothelioma vs. Lung Cancer
When discussing cancers that affect the chest cavity, it’s essential to distinguish between mesothelioma and lung cancer. Both impact the lungs but differ significantly in origin, causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Origin and Affected Areas
Mesothelioma primarily starts in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue covering most internal organs. The most common type, pleural mesothelioma, begins in the pleura surrounding the lungs. However, it can also arise in the peritoneum, pericardium, or tunica vaginalis.
Lung cancer, on the other hand, stems from the lung tissues themselves. It directly affects the lung tissue and can be categorized into two main types: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
Causes and Risk Factors
A notable cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers, once inhaled, lodge in the pleura or other mesothelial linings, eventually leading to cancer. Mesothelioma often manifests after decades of exposure, making it insidious and difficult to detect early.
Lung cancer also can be caused by asbestos, but smoking remains the predominant risk factor. Other contributors include exposure to radon gas, air pollution, and family history.
Symptoms
The symptoms of both cancers can overlap but generally vary. For mesothelioma, signs might include:
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Fluid buildup in the pleura (pleural effusion)
With lung cancer, symptoms often include:
- A chronic cough that worsens over time
- Coughing up blood
- Hoarseness and weight loss
Treatment Options
Treatment for mesothelioma may encompass surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, often in combination. However, due to its aggressive nature, the prognosis remains challenging.
Lung cancer treatments generally depend on the cancer type and stage. They might include surgery, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, or immunotherapy.
Understanding the distinctions between mesothelioma and lung cancer can improve awareness and encourage early consultation with healthcare professionals when necessary. Early detection is key, especially given the serious nature of these conditions.
Understanding the Impact of Mesothelioma on the Lungs
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. It most commonly affects the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura, leading to a specific type called pleural mesothelioma.
How It Starts
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lung tissue. Over time, these fibers cause inflammation and genetic mutations in the cells. This damage can lead to the uncontrolled cell growth that is characteristic of cancer.
The Effects on Lung Function
- Reduced Lung Capacity: Mesothelioma can cause the pleura to thicken and harden, limiting the lungs’ ability to expand fully. This restriction can reduce lung capacity, leading to difficulty in breathing.
- Pleural Effusion: The cancer can also cause fluid to accumulate between the layers of the pleura, known as pleural effusion. This buildup puts pressure on the lungs, exacerbating shortness of breath and causing chest pain.
- Tumor Growth: Tumors may form within the pleura and potentially spread into the lung tissue itself. This growth can obstruct airways, further impairing respiratory function and contributing to persistent cough and wheezing.
- Pain and Discomfort: The pressure from tumors and fluid can cause significant pain and discomfort, making deep breaths painful and leading to chronic cough.
Progression and Further Complications
As mesothelioma progresses, it can spread to other parts of the body. This metastasis complicates treatment and may contribute to a deterioration in overall health.
While treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, aim to manage symptoms and slow progression, early detection remains crucial for better outcomes. Regular check-ups for those with known asbestos exposure are recommended, as symptoms often appear decades after initial contact with the fibers.
By understanding these impacts, patients and caregivers can better recognize symptoms early and pursue appropriate medical care.
Preventing Mesothelioma After Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure, poses significant health risks. While it’s challenging to completely eliminate the risk once you’ve been exposed, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing mesothelioma.
1. Schedule Regular Medical Check-Ups
Early detection is crucial. Regular check-ups allow healthcare professionals to monitor your health for any signs of asbestos-related diseases. Inform your doctor about your history of asbestos exposure so they can recommend specific screenings, such as imaging tests or lung function assessments.
2. Quit Smoking
If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take. Smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer among those exposed to asbestos. By quitting, you reduce the strain on your lungs and improve overall respiratory health.
3. Boost Your Immune System
Maintaining a healthy immune system can aid in fighting off potential carcinogens. Consider:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Ensuring adequate sleep
- Managing stress effectively
4. Stay Informed About Mesothelioma Symptoms
Understanding the symptoms of mesothelioma—such as persistent cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss—can lead to earlier intervention and treatment. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
5. Utilize Protective Equipment
If you continue to work in environments with asbestos exposure, use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and respirators. Ensure proper workplace safety protocols are followed, including adequate ventilation and asbestos handling procedures.
6. Consult with Specialists
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, consult with a specialist in lung health or an oncologist. They can provide personalized advice and recommend preventive strategies based on your specific exposure level and health condition.
7. Educate Yourself and Others
Awareness is a powerful tool. Educate yourself and those around you about the risks of asbestos and the importance of safety measures. Encouraging a culture of safety can significantly reduce exposure risks.
By taking these preventive measures, you can proactively manage your health and potentially reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma. Stay vigilant, informed, and proactive in your approach to health following asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma Treatment
After a diagnosis of mesothelioma, consider your treatment options. It’s best to get started right away.
What Are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?
Your medical team will tell you about the best treatment options for you. Generally, mesothelioma is treated with a combination of one or more therapies, most commonly:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
Not everyone is a good candidate for surgery due to age, overall health, and tumor location. Doctors typically focus on chemotherapy with radiation and palliative treatments for those patients.
A standard treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma begins with cytoreductive surgery, a procedure to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible. This is followed by HIPEC, the circulation of heated chemotherapy drugs throughout the abdomen.
How Do I Find Treatment Centers and Specialists?
Talk to your diagnosing oncologist about mesothelioma specialists. You can be treated by any cancer team, but specialists are best for a rare disease like mesothelioma.
You might have to travel to reach specialists. Some of the top treatment centers for mesothelioma are:
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- The Pacific Mesothelioma Center, Los Angeles, California
- Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York
- The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, Illinois
Veterans with mesothelioma can access specialists at VA medical centers in Boston and Los Angeles.
Are There Any New Treatments That Increase Mesothelioma Survival Rates?
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), clinical trials are currently being held to help figure out new treatments for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.
If physicians and scientists can determine effective treatments during clinical trials, they may become available to the public.
What Is a Mesothelioma Clinical Trial?
A clinical trial is a research study where people volunteer to help scientists and physicians determine effective treatments for diseases.
Mesothelioma clinical trials were created to help find new ways to treat cancer, find and diagnose new patients, determine better pain management, and more.
Mesothelioma clinical trials are set up for all stages of the disease, even those in the beginning stages. However, participants must pass the eligibility requirements of each trial. For more information, contact the Cancer Information Service (CIS) at 1-800-4-CANCER.
Is Treatment for Mesothelioma Expensive?
Mesothelioma treatment can indeed get expensive. Whether your treatment involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or combinations of all three, the prices for treatment need to be factored in.
Planning for expenses beforehand and educating yourself on the costs will help. Still, there are also charities, government assistance programs, insurance, and other forms of financial assistance for which you may qualify.
Asbestos Exposure FAQs
Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. It is the leading risk factor and most often occurs in the workplace.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral mined and used in many industries throughout the 20th century until about the 1980s. It was used heavily in construction, manufacturing, power and oil industries, and shipbuilding.
Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers that easily shed and contaminate spaces. Unprotected workers breathed in these fibers for many years. Some of them got sick years later.
Where Was I Exposed to Asbestos?
The vast majority of asbestos exposure occurred in the workplace. If you have mesothelioma now, that’s probably where you encountered it. Some of the industries and jobs that were most at risk for asbestos exposure include:
- Shipbuilding and repair
- U.S. Navy
- Construction
- Mining
- Automotive repair
- Industrial manufacturing
- Insulation workers
- Boiler workers
- Steel mill workers
Can Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Cause Mesothelioma?
There have been some reported cases of mesothelioma from secondhand exposure. For instance, a spouse washing the clothes of someone who worked around asbestos for prolonged periods can lead to cancer.
Typically, though, most people diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed first-hand while working around asbestos for extended periods.
Does Anything Else Cause Mesothelioma?
Secondhand asbestos exposure can explain some cases of mesothelioma with no known workplace exposure. While asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, it’s not the sole factor. There are still a few cases that cannot be explained. Genetics could be a contributing factor. Some research suggests that a similar mineral called erionite might also cause mesothelioma. Natural deposits of erionite are found in some parts of the U.S.
Other Potential Causes
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic susceptibility that increases their risk, even with minimal or no asbestos exposure.
- Mineral Exposure: Erionite, a naturally occurring mineral similar to asbestos, has been linked to mesothelioma in certain regions. This mineral is found in specific areas in the U.S. And other countries.
- Radiation: Previous radiation treatments for other cancers have occasionally been associated with mesothelioma development later in life.
Understanding the Rarity
Despite these alternative factors, non-asbestos-related mesothelioma cases are rare. Ongoing research aims to understand these unique instances better, offering hope for more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
In summary, while asbestos is the main culprit, mesothelioma can arise under other circumstances, although these are less common. Keeping informed about these possibilities is crucial for early detection and intervention.
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Legal FAQs
If you have mesothelioma, treatment is a top priority. Once you start treatment, consider your legal options.
Can I Get Compensation for Having Mesothelioma?
Most people with mesothelioma can seek compensation for their illness. Compensation can be used to cover:
- Past and current medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Home care
- Medical equipment
- Prescriptions
- Travel costs
Am I Eligible to File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit or Make a Claim?
A mesothelioma lawyer can determine your eligibility for legal action to seek compensation. Mesothelioma is almost always caused by negligent workplace asbestos exposure, so you are most likely eligible to make a claim.
Who Will I Sue in a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
Almost every mesothelioma victim developed the disease after prolonged exposure to asbestos in the workplace, while others developed it from using asbestos products.
There are likely multiple companies you can sue for your mesothelioma. It might not be your employer. Often, several companies supplied employers with asbestos materials that can be held liable.
Our experienced mesothelioma lawyers will help you determine which companies are responsible for your asbestos exposure and will help you get the compensation you deserve.
I’m a Veteran With Mesothelioma. How Can I Get Compensation?
As a veteran with mesothelioma, you could be eligible for one or two options for seeking compensation:
- Filing a lawsuit or claim against the asbestos companies that supplied the military
- Making a claim with the VA for monthly disability compensation and other benefits
Veterans cannot sue the military or the U.S. government for asbestos exposure.
Do Any Lawyers Specialize in Mesothelioma Cases?
Yes, in fact, it’s highly recommended that you choose an attorney who specializes in mesothelioma cases. Mesothelioma attorneys have specialized training, experience, and knowledge of asbestos-related diseases and issues, including how to uncover the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma lawyers also understand the disease and its complications in-depth and will almost always provide you with a better shot at successfully winning your case.
Questions to Ask Your Medical Team
If you received a mesothelioma diagnosis, you probably have many more questions. A lot of these questions can only be answered by your doctors. Make a list of everything you want to know before your next appointment. Here are some examples of important things to ask:
- What type of mesothelioma do I have?
- What is my stage of mesothelioma?
- What is my prognosis?
- What are my chances of surviving mesothelioma or going into remission?
- Do I need any more tests?
- What are my treatment options?
- How do I choose from all the treatments available?
- Can I get treatments for my symptoms?
- What are the goals of treatment?
- Do I need to see any other specialists?
- What additional support can I get for coping with a mesothelioma diagnosis?
- Could I benefit from alternative therapies?
- Do I need to change anything about my lifestyle?
I’d Like to Know More About My Rights. Can You Send Me More Information?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for significant compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. If you need additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.
