What is Mesothelioma?

What is Mesothelioma

The National Cancer Institute states that: "Malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the sac lining the chest (the pleura), the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum) or the lining around the heart (the pericardium)."

Also,

Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining around the lungs, heart, and abdominal cavities - called the mesothelium - which is primarily caused by chronic exposure to asbestos or asbestos related products. As asbestos fibers enter the body, either by breathing or swallowing, they cause normally healthy cells to mutate into cancer. This exposure can come directly, such as working in an asbestos processing center, or indirectly by inhalation of residual asbestos particles remaining on clothing or building materials. Studies show that exposure as short as one year can cause a variety of asbestos related illnesses, including mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma causes the cells of the mesothelium to mutate and multiply infinitely. This mutation causes tumors that can prevent proper lung and heart function. Because the cells of the mesothelium are responsible for providing fluid lubrication for the body’s internal organs, mesothelioma is particularly insidious because it can affect multiple organs simultaneously, usually without major symptoms or pain. Mesothelioma can also invade parts of the immune system, including bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen, where it continues to mutate and destroy healthy cells. The cancerous cells also lie dormant for many years, and it is not uncommon for the first effects of mesothelioma to appear 20 to 30 years after initial exposure. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma, and treatment ranges from preventive surgery to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. By the time symptoms manifest, it is quite often too late. Because mesothelioma lays dormant for so long, post diagnosis survival ranges from 1-5 years depending on the stage of the cancer and the age and condition of the victim.

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Studies show that there are 10,000 asbestos related deaths in the United States every year. These 10,000 people are not just a statistic; they are grandfathers and grandmothers, mothers and fathers, friends and neighbors. Very often asbestos companies knew the risks involved with their products, but chose to ignore the danger for the sake of profits. If you or a loved one has contracted Mesothelioma because of negligent use of asbestos, then you have a duty and obligation to seek restitution for your loss. Knowledgeable attorneys in your state are ready to take your case. Contact one today.

Source: resource4mesothelioma.com

Q: Is there any promising research or are there promising drugs for mesothelioma?
A: Research is being conducted at various cancer centers all over the United States as well as by pharmaceutical companies.

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