There are many different types of mesothelioma, and the most common are found in the construction industry, mining and oil and gas drilling. These industries are a natural habitat for asbestos exposure, and more than 80% of the cases reported each year involve workers.
The most common causes of mesothelioma are internal and external (dwelling) tumors. This cancer has a high incidence in workers exposed to asbestos, primarily from asbestos-containing materials. The more common way for people to be exposed to asbestos is through the skin. The risk of contracting this cancer is proportional to the amount of time spent in contact with asbestos.
Mesothelioma causes can come from many places. Cancerous cells often grow inside the body. This is commonly diagnosed through a chest x-ray or blood test. The growth may appear as a lump or as a growth on the lungs, abdomen or neck.
Mesothelioma causes are also related to poor diet and environmental exposures. Lack of vitamins and minerals and eating meat and dairy products increase the risk of developing this disease. Smoking and asbestos exposure are the most common sources of these diseases.
If you have any symptoms or you believe you may have a disease that may be linked to the disease, your first step should be to find out if you have been exposed to asbestos. If the answer is yes, ask your doctor to take tests, especially if you smoke. There are tests that will determine if you are suffering from mesothelioma.
Lung function tests can show if there is fluid in the lungs or some scarring. These tests are known as pleural biopsies and can help doctors determine if there is malignant mesothelioma. These tests will also help doctors determine how many years you have left to live.
Mesothelioma causes can be divided into internal and external. Internal mesothelioma means the cancer starts in the internal organs, such as the chest cavity, lungs, liver and rectum. External mesothelioma means it is in the lining around the body, such as the membranes lining the lung.
Mesothelioma causes can occur in women or men. Usually the cases are more common in men, but there are cases in women as well. If you believe you may have this disease, you should speak to your doctor immediately.
