Common Mesothelioma Misconceptions

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, only affecting a few thousand Americans per year. Although science continues to progress, there is still a relatively small amount of information available. Lack of available information has, in turn, caused an influx of mesothelioma myths and misconceptions.

If you or a loved one suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, awaiting those who’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos illness. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on seasoned mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

Smoking Causes Mesothelioma

Smoking does not cause mesothelioma. Smokers are also not at any higher risk of developing mesothelioma when compared to non-smokers.

However, lung cancer risk is greater for smokers exposed to asbestos. This is because smoking weakens the lungs, allowing asbestos to cause lung damage more easily.

Only Older People Get Mesothelioma

Although it’s true that older adults develop mesothelioma more than any other age group, the disease, in general, is usually not detected until 30 years or more after asbestos exposure. The average age of mesothelioma diagnosis is over 60.

People of all ages, including children, can get mesothelioma. Children are usually diagnosed much earlier because their immune systems aren’t fully developed. The most common way they get mesothelioma is through secondary exposure.

In rare instances, children can get mesothelioma from old school buildings built using asbestos. They can also be exposed to asbestos by playing in attics with asbestos-containing insulation or around old, abandoned buildings built with asbestos.

Mesothelioma Is Contagious

Mesothelioma has never been nor will ever be contagious. The only instance that even remotely resembles mesothelioma being contagious is secondary exposure from a family member who was exposed to asbestos while working around it.

You Must Have Prolonged Exposure to Asbestos to Get Mesothelioma

In most cases, long-term, prolonged exposure to asbestos typically leads to mesothelioma.

However, according to recent medical studies, even limited exposure for a short amount of time can result in mesothelioma. Although rare, it can happen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that there is no safe level of asbestos.

Mesothelioma Is Just Another Word for Lung Cancer

Although the most common form of mesothelioma, called pleural mesothelioma, develops around the lungs, it is not lung cancer. This is a common myth and mistake because pleural mesothelioma develops along the lining of the lungs, called the pleura.

Several other types of mesothelioma affect other parts of the body, such as ovarian, peritoneal, testicular, and laryngeal mesothelioma.

Only Men Get Mesothelioma

This myth started because the majority of workers in factories, plants, oil refineries, and on ships where prolonged exposure to asbestos occurred were men.

Even though men are diagnosed four times more often, women do get mesothelioma.

If You Get Mesothelioma, You Won’t Live Much Longer

While it’s true that there is no cure yet, people can still go on to live successful lives while battling mesothelioma. With a vast array of treatment options that keep getting better as science and technology progresses, victims are living longer with a better quality of life.

Every case of mesothelioma is unique, and the outcome greatly depends on how advanced the stage of the disease is, how soon the symptoms of mesothelioma start to surface, and how effective the treatment works on each patient.

If You’ve Been Diagnosed

If you’ve been injured by mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on qualified asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.