Mesothelioma Resources for Patients & Loved Ones
Mesothelioma (also known as Malignant Mesothelioma) is a rare type of cancer that develops from the thin layer of tissue that covers many of the internal organs (known as the mesothelium). The most common area affected is the lining of the lungs and chest wall.
Making a correct mesothelioma diagnosis is often difficult for doctors because the disease usually presents with symptoms that mimic other common ailments.
There is currently no known cure for mesothelioma, but treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy can help to improve the typical mesothelioma prognosis and even increase life expectancy of sufferers.
There are three recognised types of Mesothelioma:
- Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common form of the disease, accounting for roughly 70% of cases, and occurs in the lining of the lung known as the pleura
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum
- Pericardial Mesothelioma originates in the pericardium, which covers the heart
- Read our latest fact sheet on Mesothelioma & Asbestos here…
Causes of Mesothelioma
Studies have shown that asbestos causes inflammation of mesothelial cells, which leads to cellular damage and cancer. Up to nine out of 10 individuals suffering from Mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos. When asbestos fibres are accidentally swallowed, this form of cancer affects the abdomen.
People who have been exposed to high levels of asbestos at a young age are most likely to develop Mesothelioma.
Furthermore, many industrial factories and commercial buildings were constructed with products containing asbestos, putting those who have lived or worked in these places at risk. Other asbestos diseases triggered by asbestos exposure include diffuse pleural thickening, asbestos lung cancer and fibrosis.
In addition to asbestos exposure, Mesothelioma can be caused by radiation therapy and tobacco use.
Individuals who have a family history of mesothelioma are more likely to develop this condition. Living with someone who works with this substance increases the risk of Mesothelioma as well.
Sometimes this condition occurs in people who have never been exposed to asbestos. The chances of developing this form of cancer does not decrease with time after exposure to asbestos.
