Mesothelioma is strongly associated with exposure to asbestos and fiber glass but smoking has been linked to an increased incidence in mesothelioma. So smokers are at great risk of having lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Main causes of lung cancer: In most people, lung cancer is related to cigarette smoking. Although some people who have never smoked get lung cancer, smoking causes 9 out of 10 cases.
The second most important risk factor for lung cancer is exposure to radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep out of the soil. Other, less important risk factors include air pollution, exposure to certain chemicals(like as asbetos), previous lung disease, family history of lung cancer, past cancer treatment and having poor immunity.
The more you smoke, the more likely you are to get lung cancer. But the length of time you have been a smoker is most important. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of lung cancer.
Let’s learn what is Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can develop in the tissues covering the lungs or the abdomen. It is a cancer of mesothelial cells.
Combined, these cancers affect 2,000 to 3,000 people in the United States each year. Receiving a diagnosis can be difficult due to the similarity of symptoms to other, more common conditions and doctors may overlook mesothelioma as a diagnosis.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma or lung cancer may include:
* Coughing
* Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
* Difficulty Sleeping
* Weight Loss
* Pain in chest and abdomen
* Fluid in the chest
The inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, including malignant lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis (a type of pneumoconiosis).
In most cases of mesothelioma, it takes decades for the disease to cause symptoms.
Although a serious hazard to your health, asbestos is an excellent insulating material. It is used in many products that need to withstand high heat such as home insulation and construction, brake pads, electrical equipment, hot water piping, boilers, ship engines, and welding supplies. People who have worked in these industries should be screened regularly for the development of lung disease.
While smoking has not been found to cause mesothelioma, smoking has been linked to an increased incidence in mesothelioma in asbestos exposed workers. Therefore, if you have had occupational e exposure to asbestos, smoking could raise the risk of developing mesothelioma.
Ifyour symptoms suggest you may have mesothelioma, you doctor will order a number of tests. Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans and MRI show any abnormalities within the lungs. A complete blood count and levels of specific proteins can help make the diagnosis. However, the diagnosis of mesothelioma cannot be made by blood work and imaging studies in every case.
Note: If you have these warning signs you should consultant a qualified medical professional immediately. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
* ‘Asbetos.com’- is spreading awareness about the dangers of asbestos cancer (mesothelioma). Their goal is to offer a one-stop resource on all asbestos and mesothelioma-related issues ranging from occupational exposure to treatment options.
