Mesothelioma Causes
The Mesothelioma causes listed in this article represent the leading causes of this cancer. Those causes that have been linked to mesothelioma include:
Asbestos Exposure: Asbestos is a mineral that is often used in various building materials and is produced from naturally occurring minerals in nature. This is why it is so commonly used in construction. Even though asbestos was known to cause mesothelioma, it was typically used in products that were designed to last a long time and then disposed of properly.
Although occupational exposure is known to be a cause of mesothelioma, it is not yet clear how much this exposure contributes to the increased risk. The most common scenario for this exposure involves the use of asbestos in a plastic product that needs to be molded. When asbestos is improperly taken out of the mold, it can release small particles of the mineral into the air. Even though many people who work with these types of products assume that they are well-trained to take these precautions, they may still be exposed to the asbestos and not realize it.
The next most common scenario involves exposure to asbestos through other products, such as insulation. This is typically the case when shingles are used on a house, and people assume that this will protect them from asbestos exposure.
Toxic Chemicals: The use of asbestos products has resulted in the development of other, more dangerous chemicals. There are three types of chemicals that have been associated with this cancer: cadmium, lead, and chromium.
Cadmium: The most commonly used of the toxic chemicals for this cancer is cadmium. It is commonly used as an insulator and as a catalyst. However, it also serves as a metal in other reactions. While cadmium is an unavoidable part of this process, the high level of exposure it causes is unacceptable.
A cadmium exposure can cause the cells in the mesothelium to become hyperactive, which can result in cancer. This is why an asbestos-free environment is important in the evaluation of any patient. The Mesothelioma causes listed above are the most common, but there are others that have been identified.
The mesothelioma causes listed above are just a few of the many that have been identified. The Mesothelioma causes should not be seen as the only cause of this cancer, and those mentioned above are likely not the only ones involved.