Mesothelioma is a rare form of
cancer that may take up to 20 years to develop. Currently there are three
recognized forms of mesothelioma in which doctors can diagnose patients and
these are pleural, peritoneal and pericardial mesothelioma. Each of these forms
of cancer usually affects the cell linings of the lungs, and/or the abdominal
cavity and the heart. This disease often, unfortunately, leads to death.
How Does a Person Develop
Mesothelioma?
Meothelioma typically develops
after a person has been exposed to asbestos for a long period of time. In the
past and before regulation, many individuals were employed in jobs where
asbestos fibers were common. Facilities and jobs where asbestos was common
included textile industry, carpenters, electricians, shipyards, and welders.
Although there may be other industries where exposure to asbestos was
sufficient to lead to Mesothelioma, these are among the most common areas in
which patients who have developed mesothelioma have reported working.
Mesothelioma Cancer
Those afflicted with Mesothelioma
may not present symptoms until many years after exposure. Common Mesothelioma
symptoms include
Flu-like symptoms,
Respiratory complications,
Difficulty swallowing,
Pain in chest or abdomen,
Fluid in the lungs, and
Weight loss.
Did you previously work in an
industry where you were regularly exposed to asbestos fibers? If you
experiecing any of the above general symptoms please seek medical attention
immediately so your physician can give you a medical diagnosis.