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Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, commonly found in building materials. Symptoms are similar to general aging, and construction workers from the 1970s are at risk. Different types of malignant mesothelioma require different surgeries, radiation treatments, and chemotherapy. The government now has strict laws regulating and banning the use of asbestos in construction products.
Mesolthelioma is a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers, often used to insulate homes, schools and other buildings. This disease attacks the lining of the heart, lungs and abdomen.
Because asbestos is found in basic building materials, those at risk for mesolthelioma are largely, but not exclusively, the construction workers who built our buildings in the 1970s. The danger of using this natural mineral was either unknown or ignored by health officials. One danger of the disease is that the symptoms are similar to those of general aging, and many people tend to ignore them until more serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms occur. It is generally recommended that if you have been exposed to asbestos in your younger years, you should ask a doctor to investigate symptoms similar to those described below.
There are different types of malignant mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma, or cancer of the lung lining, can cause shortness of breath, fluid buildup, chest pain, hoarseness, coughing up blood, muscle weakness, paralysis, loss of sensation, and swelling of the face and arms. There are two types of surgeries commonly performed to treat this disease, both of which involve the removal of portions of the lungs. The first operation is called a pleurectomy/decortication, which involves removing part of the lung lining to remove the tumor. The second surgery is called an extrapleural pneumonectomy. During this particular surgery, the lining, diaphragm, pericardium, and entire lung may be removed to completely remove the tumor.
Peritoneal mesothelioma, or cancer of the abdominal lining, can cause stomach pain, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, hernia, fluid in the abdominal cavity, or a mass in the abdomen. A surgery known as a laparotomy may be performed during which the doctor will open up the abdomen to remove the entire tumor.
Pericardial mesothelioma, or cancer of the lining of the heart, is very rare, but it can cause shortness of breath and chest pain. A surgery called extrapleural pneumonectomy may be done to remove the tumor.
With all pericardial, peritoneal, and pleural mesothelioma, radiation treatments and chemotherapy are also options. Today the government has strict laws restricting and banning the use of asbestos in construction products. The removal of asbestos products from existing buildings is also heavily regulated.
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