Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive and often fatal form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue surrounding the lungs, abdomen, or heart. This devastating disease is primarily associated with exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing.
In this blog, we will explore mesothelioma, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, to shed light on this lesser-known but critical health concern.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a protective membrane that lines the body’s internal cavities and organs.
The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the lining of the lungs (the pleura). Other less common forms include peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining around the heart.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos was used widely in various industries due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or deteriorate, tiny asbestos fibres are released into the air and can be inhaled or ingested.
Inhaled asbestos fibres can become trapped in the mesothelium, causing inflammation and damage over time. This damage can eventually lead to the development of cancerous cells. Even a small amount of asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma and the condition may not manifest until years after exposure.
How to Prevent Mesothelioma
Preventing mesothelioma involves minimising or eliminating asbestos exposure risks. Here are some critical strategies organisations can take to protect workers from asbestos exposure:
Identify and Manage ACMs
Asbestos may be present in any building constructed or renovated before 1999. This risk is even greater in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Conduct a thorough inspection to identify ACMs and plan for their management or removal.
Hire Professionals for Asbestos Removal
If ACMs need to be removed, it’s essential to hire a professional asbestos removal company to handle the process safely and legally.
Provide Awareness Training
Employees at risk of exposure must complete an asbestos awareness course. Awareness training makes workers aware of the potential risks of asbestos and explains how to respond in case of accidental exposure.
Implement Preventive Measures
Workers at risk of asbestos exposure must follow safety protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE) if needed. It is crucial to implement these preventive measures to reduce the potential for exposure to harmful asbestos fibres.
Who Is Most at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is one of the primary reasons for developing mesothelioma.
Individuals at high risk of developing mesothelioma include:
- Miners, construction workers, demolition workers, renovation workers, insulation installers and shipyard workers.
- Family members and loved ones of asbestos workers may also be at risk due to exposure to asbestos fibres brought home on clothing and shoes.
- People living near asbestos mines, naturally occurring asbestos deposits, or areas with asbestos contamination may be at risk from exposure to airborne asbestos particles.
Anyone who manages non-domestic premises must know how to minimise asbestos risks and prevent exposure. Courses such as Duty to Manage Asbestos explain how to safeguard workers, including those at a high risk of exposure.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma symptoms typically do not appear until several decades after asbestos exposure. This long latency period makes early detection challenging. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness
These symptoms are often associated with other common respiratory conditions, making mesothelioma challenging to diagnose. Consequently, early detection through routine screenings is critical for individuals with a history of asbestos exposure.
What Are the Risk Factors for Mesothelioma?
While asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma, there are additional factors that can influence an individual’s susceptibility to the disease:
Duration and Intensity of Exposure: The risk of developing mesothelioma is higher for individuals who experienced prolonged or heavy exposure to asbestos.
Type of Asbestos: Some forms of asbestos, such as amphibole, are associated with a higher risk of mesothelioma than chrysotile asbestos.
Genetics: Some studies suggest a genetic predisposition may contribute to an increased risk of mesothelioma in specific individuals.
Secondhand Exposure: People who were not directly involved in working with asbestos but had close contact with those who were (e.g., family members of asbestos workers) may also be at risk due to asbestos fibres brought home on work clothes.
Age: While mesothelioma can affect individuals of all ages, it is commonly diagnosed in individuals over 65 because of their greater potential for past exposure to asbestos.
What Is the Diagnosis and Treatment for Mesothelioma?
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing mesothelioma often involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations and various imaging and diagnostic tests, such as:
- X-rays, CT scans and MRIs
- Biopsies
- Blood Tests
Treatment:
Treatments for mesothelioma are necessary to remove or manage cancerous cells, alleviate symptoms, and potentially extend a patient’s life. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Multimodal therapy (combination of treatments)
- Palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Recognising its signs and symptoms, understanding risk factors and early diagnosis are critical for treating this devastating disease and improving patient outcomes.