Mesothelioma is a cancer which attacks the mesothelium, a protective, two-layered membrane that covers the internal organs of the body including the lungs, heart and abdominal organs. Between these layers, the cells produce fluid, which allows easy movement of the heart and lungs within the chest cavity. The layer that covers the lungs is called the pleura, and the layer that covers the heart is called the pericardium. The peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma can affect any of these cells, but the most commonly diagnosed form of mesothelioma is pleural.

How is mesothelioma caused?

The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.

How long does it take to develop mesothelioma?

Usually, it takes between 20 and 50 years to develop mesothelioma. However, in recent cases among rescue workers at the World Trade Center, mesothelioma has appeared within 5 years.

What is the difference between lung cancer and mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is not a form of lung cancer because it attacks the lining of the lung (pleura) and not the lung tissue directly. Smoking is usually the major cause of lung cancer but smoking cannot cause mesothelioma.

What are the symptoms/signs of mesothelioma?

The most common symptoms of mesothelioma are shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme fatigue (especially after exercise), coughing, fluid in the chest, weight loss, husky voice, and difficulty swallowing.

Can mesothelioma be cured?

Not at this time.

What is the relation between mesothelioma and asbestosis?

Often, asbestosis is the first step towards the development of mesothelioma. Some people are fortunate in that their asbestosis never develops into cancer. Others are not so lucky. No one knows why some individuals develop this cancer and others don't. However, smokers who continue smoking after they've been diagnosed with asbestosis have a much higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

How might I get mesothelioma?

Currently, the only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. If you worked in an industry where the use of asbestos was prevalent - such as shipbuilding or construction - you probably inhaled dangerous asbestos fibers. Second-hand exposure to asbestos, caused by inhaling asbestos dust from the clothes of someone who worked with the material or by living near an asbestos mine or factory, can also cause you to develop the disease.

What steps can I take to prevent a mesothelioma diagnosis?

Avoiding exposure to asbestos, no matter what the amount, is the best way to prevent a mesothelioma diagnosis. If you still work with the material, stop immediately. If you already have asbestosis, don't smoke as you will have a higher chance of developing the disease if you smoke.

How many fatalities are there annually because of mesothelioma?

About 2,500-3,000 Americans die each year from mesothelioma.

What kinds of treatments are available for mesothelioma?

Because mesothelioma is often diagnosed in its late stages, surgery to remove the tumor is generally not an option. Instead, doctors usually recommend chemotherapy or radiation to help control the symptoms of the disease.

Is asbestos exposure the only cause of mesothelioma?

yes

What types of people are most at risk for mesothelioma?/p>

Anyone who worked in an industry that used asbestos on a regular basis is at highest risk for the disease. They include shipbuilders, construction workers, auto mechanics, power plant workers, boilermakers, pipefitters, drywallers, electricians, plumbers, insulators, railroad workers, iron workers, and miners.

When was the first documented mesothelioma diagnosis?

The first documented case of mesothelioma was in 1962. The victim was an Australian man who worked in the asbestos mines in the town of Wittenoom from 1948-1950.

What are my options as a person who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

Though mesothelioma is not curable, you can opt for treatments that will help control the uncomfortable symptoms of the disease. They include surgical procedures that will remove fluid from the pleura, pericardium, or peritoneum, as well as radiation and chemotherapy. Alternative treatments, such as massage, acupuncture, meditation, and herbal supplements, are also available to address symptoms of the disease and the side effects of some of the treatments.

Are there different types of mesothelioma? If so, what kinds?

There are three (3) kinds of mesothelioma: pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial. Pleural (affecting the lining of the lung) is the most common and accounts for approximately 75% of all mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal (affecting the lining of the abdomen) accounts for about 15% - 20% of all diagnosed cases while pericardial mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the heart) makes up less than 10% of all cases.

Are there clinical trials available for mesothelioma patients?

Yes, at any given time there are usually several. Your doctor can determine whether there are any for which you are eligible. If he/she is unable to provide that information, contact the American Cancer Society or consult the U.S. Institutes of Health clinical trial website at www.clinicaltrials.gov

Is there a specific amount of asbestos exposure needed to cause mesothelioma?

Any amount of exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma. Individuals who worked with asbestos for just a few months may be as prone to the disease as those who worked with it for years. Experts are unaware as to why some individuals develop the disease while others do not.

Does smoking cause mesothelioma?

No, but smoking can aggravate asbestosis and cause it to become cancer.