What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive, and treatment-resistant form of cancer caused primarily by exposure to asbestos and asbestos-contaminated products.
Despite its severity, mesothelioma remains a relatively obscure disease with limited public knowledge and understanding. 

The disease begins with the development of malignant fluid surrounding the lungs, abdomen, heart, and vital organs. The fluid compresses the organs and inhibits normal functioning.

Symptoms in the early stages of mesothelioma are often subtle and commonly attributed to less serious health issues, they are ignored or misdiagnosed. As these symptoms become more severe, the individual pursues treatment or resolution. Most often, at that point, it is too late, the cancer has progressed beyond intervention, and only palliative care can be offered.

A close up of the missing piece of a puzzle

There Are Three Main Types of Mesothelioma

1. Pleural Mesothelioma

The most common form, affecting the lining of the lungs.

2. Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Affects the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum.

3. Pericardial Mesothelioma

Affects the lining around the heart (very rare).

Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and palliative care. For more information, use our Contact Us page to request a FREE MESOTHELIOMA GUIDE. MWA has partnered with several organizations in order to provide the most comprehensive and current information about mesothelioma.

 

Symptoms of mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, abdominal swelling, fatigue, and weight loss. Due to its long latency period (the time between exposure to asbestos and the development of the disease), mesothelioma is often diagnosed in later stages.

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become trapped in the body, creating inflammation and scarring of the tissues. Over time, this can result in the development of mesothelioma.

Asbestos is a group of minerals once commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and insulation due to their heat-resistant properties. People are exposed to asbestos in several settings, including:

  • 1. Occupational Settings

    Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive (brake linings), and manufacturing of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are at higher risk.

  • 2. Renovation and Demolition

    Disturbing buildings or materials that contain asbestos during renovations or demolitions can release asbestos fibers into the air.

  • 3. Older Buildings

    Homes, schools, and commercial buildings constructed prior to the 1980s often contain asbestos insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and other materials.

  • 4. Natural Environments

    Asbestos can be found in certain natural formations, and people may be exposed through activities like mining or living in close proximity to asbestos deposits.

    * Asbestos deposits exist in the United States, though there are no asbestos mines currently active or operational. Historically, several states, including Vermont, California, and Washington, had significant asbestos deposits, which are primarily associated with specific geological formations.

  • 5. Secondhand Exposure

    Family members of workers who handle asbestos may be exposed to fibers brought home on clothing, skin, or hair.

  • 6. Asbestos Products

    Use of older products like certain types of insulation, automotive parts, and fireproofing materials can lead to exposure.

Mesothelioma has also been linked to cosmetics and body powders

Like asbestos, talc is a naturally occurring mineral; talc is used in products like baby or talcum powder and similar personal care items due to its ability to absorb moisture, reduce friction, and keep skin dry.

Talc is not harmful in its pure form. However, talc deposits mined near asbestos can sometimes become contaminated with asbestos fibers. If asbestos fibers are present in talc during mining, they can be mixed into products during the production process.

Today, there are stricter regulations and safety measures for talc production, and many companies have taken steps to remove asbestos contamination from their talcum powders. For many years, manufacturers did not sufficiently test or remove these harmful contaminants from talc-based products.

Creation of the Mesothelioma Warrior Alliance was funded by a generous gift from Amy Lee Jennings, Beautiful Soul - Mesothelioma Warrior