Deaths from mesothelioma

Deaths from Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the abdomen (peritoneum). It is predominantly caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals made of microscopic fibers that were once widely used in construction, automotive, and other industries for their resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals. Despite its known dangers, asbestos exposure continues to result in diagnoses of mesothelioma worldwide, leading to a significant number of deaths annually.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs or abdomen, causing irritation that may lead to mesothelioma over time. The risk of developing mesothelioma is related to the duration and intensity of asbestos exposure, with those having prolonged and intense exposure being at higher risk. Other factors, such as a family history of mesothelioma or carrying certain genetic mutations, may also increase risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until decades after exposure to asbestos. Symptoms depend on the type of mesothelioma but may include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain and swelling, weight loss, and fatigue. Due to its nonspecific symptoms, mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of mesothelioma involves a combination of medical history, including asbestos exposure, physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsies. Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care to relieve symptoms. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the patient's overall health.

Epidemiology

Mesothelioma is relatively rare, with about 3,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year. However, its incidence varies globally, reflecting past use of asbestos. Countries that have historically used large amounts of asbestos, such as Australia and the United Kingdom, have higher rates of mesothelioma. The latency period between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma can be several decades, meaning that the disease may continue to affect individuals even years after the use of asbestos has declined.

Prevention and Control

Preventing exposure to asbestos is the most effective way to reduce the risk of developing mesothelioma. This includes adhering to safety regulations in workplaces that involve asbestos and removing or mitigating asbestos in older buildings in a safe and controlled manner. Public health efforts also focus on raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos and promoting legislation to ban its use.

Deaths from Mesothelioma

Deaths from mesothelioma are often due to complications of the disease, such as respiratory failure or pneumonia. The prognosis for mesothelioma is generally poor, with many patients living only a year or two after diagnosis. However, early detection and new treatment approaches are improving outcomes for some patients.

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Deaths from mesothelioma

Deaths from mesothelioma is a rare disease.