Is Asbestos Mesothelioma Curable?

By Joe Harrell

The main factor responsible for contracting mesothelioma is working with asbestos. About 70 to 80 percent of all mesothelioma cases have a history of asbestos exposure behind them. In spite of this, there have been a few cases of this malicious cancer, where asbestos exposure was not involved. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral as masses of flexible fibers which can be separated into fine threads and woven. There are many industrial products which make use of asbestos like, cement, brake linings, flooring products, roof shingles, textiles and insulation. Thus asbestos mesothelioma becomes a serious health hazard to many workers.

During the manufacturing process, the tiny asbestos particles get scattered in the air. Unwittingly, the workers inhale or swallow these particles giving rise so severe health problems. It is found that asbestos exposure and smoking enhance the risk of contracting cancer of the air passageways in the lung. Many American workers have become hapless victims of the material since the early'40s. They include shipyard workers, people who are working in asbestos mines and mills, construction industries etc.

With heavier and longer espouser to asbestos, the risk of asbestos related disease increases. At this point it should also be remembered that while many who have had maximum exposure to asbestos were spared, there are a few unfortunate ones who contracted asbestos mesothelioma though they were exposed to the minimum. Since the late'00s, asbestos has been mined and put to commercial use. The risks were unknown to the common public in the initial days. After establishing the connection between the cancer and asbestos, many laws have come into existence for the betterment of the workers. One such measure is setting limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in workplace.

The cancer is so malicious that it does not even spare the family members. Asbestos particles stick to the hair and clothing of workers thereby exposing the relatives also to them. In order to avoid this, rules have been formulated for the workers to have a bath and change of cloth before heading home.

It has been noted that detection of asbestos mesothelioma is a difficult process owing to the fact that the symptoms appear very late. The similarity of the symptoms with those of other diseases also makes the correct diagnosis almost impossible. Medical technology has advanced greatly giving new hope to the victims and their relatives. But a complete cure still remains a distant dream. - 30286

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