In most of the people, mesothelioma is caused due to exposure to asbestos, which is a mineral that can be found in various products including roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, insulation, drywall, insulation, and pipes and flooring. Although there is no cure available for this type of cancer, mesothelioma lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve. In fact, in most states, these lawyers are considered to be the biggest law firms so they handle all kinds of mesothelioma cases.
The first among the known mesothelioma causes is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a silicate mineral that has been extensively used in construction materials since the late 1960’s. This mineral was then found to be very dangerous as it has the ability to cause many health problems like lung cancer, pleural plaques, asbestosis, etc. Once this material becomes embedded in the lungs, it cannot be removed easily without causing any kind of harm.
If there is any kind of genetic mutations in the cells of the person exposed to asbestos, there is a great possibility that he might suffer from this disease at a very young age. Some of the well-known genetic mutations include the ameliorated (A gene) or the rearranged (R gene) genetic mutations. If one of your parents suffered from mesothelioma, there is a great chance that you may also develop this disease. Moreover, if you have a history of cancer in your family (including non-melanoma skin cancer), the risk of developing mesothelioma increases greatly.
Another reason that might lead to the development of mesothelioma is when the mesothelium cells begin to divide uncontrollably. When this happens, it may become cancerous. The division of the cells can take place in the pleura (the tissues lining the lungs and the abdominal cavity), in the peritoneum (lining the abdomen and the internal organs), and in the lungs. Other than being able to cause cancer, this process can also result in irritation to the mesothelium of the lungs, which might lead to asbestos fibers entering the lungs.
Mesothelioma patients are at increased risk factor for other diseases as well. They are more likely to develop pleural mesothelioma. The risk factor for peritoneal mesothelioma increases with the duration of asbestos exposure. In fact, continuous exposure to asbestos is considered as one of the major causes of mesothelioma. Moreover, patients who were smokers or people who engaged in a hazardous occupation are also at increased risk factor.
There are several treatment options available for patients suffering from mesothelioma. The most common form of treatment is surgery. However, surgical procedures may not be effective in all cases. Some mesothelioma patients require long-term treatments such as radioactive mesothelioma therapy and chemotherapy. Patients should also have access to pain management treatments such as endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, percutaneous neurectomy, and palliative medicine.
