MESOTHELIOMA
DEFINITION |
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Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in
which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a
protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most
people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they
inhaled asbestos particles.
Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A
history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent
to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported
in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as
masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin
threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial
products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring
products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float
in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be
inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In
addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of
lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and
other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.
Mesothelioma cancer as a byproduct of asbestos in the workplace has
caused many lawsuits affecting companies who have asbestos products
in the workplace environment. |
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| MESOTHELIOMA RELATED ITEMS |
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