Stage 1 Lung Cancer Survival Rate - Know Your Odds

The earliest stage of cancer of the lung is when the malignant cells are confined to one area of the lung. When these cells started to spread outward and affect other healthy regions of the body, the level gets a little higher. At the initial form, the tumor starts in the tissue linings of the lungs. As it progresses, the tumor will affect other tissues of the lungs before it could start destroying other organs of the body. This malignant tumor is referred to as the primary tumor. Stage 1 lung cancer survival rate is just above 50 percent.

Cancer of the lung is one of the most dangerous types of cancers in the entire world. According to some research, this type of cancer has claimed as many as 1.3 million people annually since 2004. Most patients with this type of cancer are not aware that cigarette smoking is the primary reason for their dilemma. Cigarette or tobacco smoking contributes to a huge amount of lung cancer diagnostics. Over exposure to pollution or carcinogenic materials also increases one's risk of having this dreaded disease. In some research, alcoholism also triggers an abnormal lung growth. We have to be reminded of the danger of this dreaded illness, and being informed as to how it can be prevented counts a lot.

There are two types of lung tumors. One is small cell and the other one is non-small cell carcinoma. At the earliest stage, the malignant cells haven't invaded any lymph nodes yet. Stage 1 lung cancer survival rate in a five - year period is at 55 percent.

There are different symptoms one may see if affected by this dreaded disease. Following is a list of probable symptoms of lung cancer. Take note that these symptoms may also be the effect of other lung diseases.

• Persistent coughing or more often referred to as smoker's cough
• losing breath due to constriction of the airway
• Over fatigue even in light exercises
• Pain in the chest
• Sudden discomfort in the chest area
• Shallow breathing accompanied by wheezing
• Traces of blood in phlegm
• Lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia that occur frequently
• Change in the tone of voice is another symptom
• It could also be weight loss

Stage 1 lung cancer survival rate can be improved. One must seek the help of medical professionals when diagnosed with this life altering disease. Doctors who are experienced with this type of illness are the key to extending one's life.

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Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Sufferers

Learning that you have developed mesothelioma is not easy. This is a rare cancer and deadly disease that is caused by asbestos exposure. Though the disease is not curable, there are several types of treatments and therapies that you can get to help you live a longer and comfortable life. If you or a loved one has developed this deadly disease, you must seek immediate treatment and get legal help and advice as soon as possible.

Secondary Exposure To Asbestos Fibers

Asbestos products and materials were common during the last century. Many workers in industries where asbestos exposure was prevalent came in contact with the deadly material regularly not knowing that their lives were at risk. Even those who were exposed to asbestos due to secondary exposure like fibers brought home on clothes and on the hair of workers have been discovered to place family members at severe risks of developing mesothelioma also. People who live near facilities that made asbestos containing products were also at risk for developing this deadly disease.

Here are some known industries and areas that asbestos products were prevalent. They include:

? Shipyards
? Insulation installers
? Construction workers
? Power and chemical plants
? Boilermakers
? Auto mechanics
? Electricians
? Plumbers
? Pipe fitters
? Welders
? Railroad workers
? And more...

If you have worked in any of these locations or have worked in any of these industries you should talk to your doctor so that you can get the proper diagnosis for your illness and receive treatment at the early stages of this disease. Mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose and takes a very long time to present itself after exposure to asbestos, but early diagnosis and treatment can help you live and longer and comfortable life. Regular screening is recommended so that appropriate treatment can be given.

Asbestos Exposure And Mesothelioma Sufferers

Mesothelioma sufferers do not have to go through this alone. Having to deal with the physical, emotional, and financial issues resulting from this deadly disease is devastating. There are many support groups available for mesothelioma sufferers that can help you cope with your illness. These support groups can help you reach out to other mesothelioma sufferers. Also, to ease the stress of financial burden, you can seek monetary compensation from the companies that are at fault and exposed you to this deadly disease. If you need legal advice, you should contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney who specializes in asbestos litigation and mesothelioma lawsuits as soon as possible.

Asbestos Exposure

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Early Diagnosis Of Mesothelioma Is The Key

Mesothelioma has become one of the most killer viruses of the last three decades. The root of the virus lies in an exposure to asbestos material. Even though the disease is considered less widespread as compared to other forms of cancer such as lung cancer, it's disturbing growth due its airborne mode of exposure has made it quite lethal. There is still no cure for this form of cancer except chemotherapy treatment. According to a report Malignant mesothelioma kills 10,000 people a year in the US alone.

The problem lies in the fact that there are no real alternatives to asbestos. And since the late 70s companies that manufacture this material have consistently lied or ignored the levels of hazard. But due to the thousands of tort cases based on asbestos exposure, manufacturing companies are doing whatever they can to meet standards of workers safety.

Transmission through Asbestos

Only by the 70s was there sufficient data available that comprehensively proved the connection of asbestos exposure. The toxic nature of asbestos if inhaled over a long period of time leads to mesothelioma form of cancer. There have been secondary transmissions or in-direct cases of transmission. In 2004 a lady in England got infected with mesothelioma due to the clothes of her father which was exposed to high levels of this toxic material. This case creates a whole different level of risk as the person concerned was not directly working in an asbestos environment.

The one redeeming fact of asbestos exposure is that malignant mesothelioma transmission is not possible with small periods of exposure. One cannot get this cancer if it inhales the toxins a few times. A sustained exposure to this environment can be the only cause for this disease. According to Centre of Disease Control (CDC) a person may take up to 7 to 10 years to develop mesothelioma

Diagnosis of the Disease

An early diagnosis is the key to fighting this disease therefore diagnosing a set of common symptoms as early as possible is highly recommended. This is especially in the case of people working in the high risk environment.

The following are the basic processes used in diagnosing mesothelioma

(A) A CAT scan or an MRI scan to check the presence of large fluid

(B) Lung function test and a Chest X-ray is performed after a thorough physical check

(C) Finally a biopsy is needed for confirmation of malignant mesothelioma

The biopsy depends upon where the cancer is located. Most commonly it is located in chest or in the abdomen. Though no test is perfect, based on medical history and the person's possible exposure to asbestos, certain inferences can be drawn.

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When Lung Cancer Spreads To The Brain, Bone, And Other Areas

Treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is usually successful when the disease is caught in its earliest stages. It remains localized in the lungs, and can be removed via surgery. Depending on its location and the extent of lung tissue that has been affected, a surgeon can perform a wedge resection, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy. Unfortunately, a large percentage of cases are not detected until the disease has spread beyond the lungs. This is a process known as metastasis. Once it occurs, surgery alone is inadequate for curing the condition.

In this article, we'll explain how lung cancer spreads to other areas of the body. You'll learn about the treatment options doctors use to resolve the disease along the way.

The Beginning Of Metastasis

With NSCLC, tumors are composed of cancerous cells. These cells eventually break away from the tumor, and travel to other parts of the body. They can do so through the lymphatic system (a part of the immune system), or through the patient's bloodstream.

When lung cancer is discussed in the context of the lung, it is referred to as a primary tumor or primary cancer. When it is discussed in the context of areas outside the lungs, it is called a secondary cancer. For instance, if NSCLC has spread to the brain, a surgeon may refer to it as "brain cancer secondary to the lung" rather than "brain cancer." This addresses the fact that metastasis has occurred, and indicates the original site of the disease.

When Cancer Cells Spread To The Lymph Nodes

The first place to which lung cancer cells migrate is the lymph nodes. The cells are delivered through the lymphatic system. In many cases, this does not necessarily constitute metastasis since the cells can migrate during the early stages of the disease. Once the cancer cells have reached the lymph nodes, however, they can spread further to other areas of the chest.

This spread is rarely caught by doctors since it is often absent of symptoms. When NSCLC is detected in the lymph nodes, chemotherapy is typically used to treat it.

Lung Cancer In The Bone

Metastasis to the bone is common, and affects an estimated four out of ten people with late stage NSCLC. While the disease can spread to bone anywhere throughout the body, common sites include the upper legs, pelvis, and spine. The patient will experience pain, which worsens as the disease advances. It is common for people to mistake the pain for mild sports injuries, such as muscle strains.

By the time lung cancer has reached the bone, it has progressed to the point that treatment focuses on relieving symptoms rather than curing the disease. Radiation therapy is usually the treatment option of choice. The patient will also receive medications to help minimize the pain.

When The Disease Reaches The Brain

Many people who suffer from late stage lung cancer will also experience metastasis to the brain. This can cause several side effects, including headaches, seizures, and a loss of coordination. Symptoms of NSCLC that has reached the brain are similar to the side effects of a stroke.

Treatment may encompass several options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and stereotactic radiotherapy. This latter option involves delivering a high dose of radiation to specific parts of the brain tissue.

Cancer Cells In The Liver

Often detected by accident, NSCLC in the liver represents a late-stage advance of the disease. By the time cancer cells have reached the liver, the condition is usually deemed at stage 4. It often produces no symptoms other than those from which the patient already suffers. Other times, the patient may feel nausea and pain under the ribs.

As with NSCLC that has spread to the bone, treatment for the disease in the liver has the goal of reducing symptoms. Surgery is rarely done at this stage.

Metastasis of cancer cells from the lungs to other parts of the body is an indication that surgery alone cannot cure the disease. If you suspect you may have NSCLC, consult your physician to discuss the most appropriate treatment options.

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Asbestos, Mesothelioma Diagnosis - Not For The Faint-Hearted

Asbestos can be airborne or processed into materials, examples of which are asbestos dust or asbestos-containing roofing sheets, respectively. 'Of the major asbestos related diseases, mesothelioma is the most sensitive and scientific indicator of the adverse health effects that have resulted from airborne exposures to asbestos fibres' [H Weill, J M Hughes, A M Churg, 2004. Changing Trends In US Mesothelioma Incidence, Occupational & Environmental Medicine, vol.61, Issue 5].

The published findings above from reputed scholars based in New Orleans & Vancouver, in layman's terms, can be inferred that developing mesothelioma is likely an incident of having been exposed to airborne asbestos fibres. Think those grey roofing sheets again & construction workers, earning a good, decent & honest living for themselves, handling them (raw) in large quantities; don't you think don't you think the immediate atmosphere in which they're working would be affected? 'Mesothelioma, more precisely malignant mesothelioma, is a rare form of cancer that develops from the protective lining that covers the pleura (outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall) and many other internal body organs' [Wikipedia contributors, 2011. Wikipedia - The Free Encyclopedia: Mesothelioma].

When asbestos particles are inhaled, they commonly attach themselves to the cell weaving that your lungs are biologically clothed in. Think of really bad fashion, repulsively worn, expressing the most grotesque & demonic themes. Now the human body, being as amazing as it is, immediately notices an intrusion of 'alien invaders' (from out of space, for all it cares) & deploys the ueber-elite warriors of its stealth immune system, the T-Cells, to the distressed area. WAR! The T-Cells on arriving launch a great counter-strike to neutralize the enemy, blasting, bombing & totally fighting with everything they've got in their arsenal, their expertise, experience, spirit & much more (it's just another day at work for them)! Their opposition however is severely impeded by the destructive power the inhaled asbestos fibres unleash on the (now poor) delicate lungs, diminishing the initially mega-powerful offensive of the T-Cells. Then what happens is as the lungs weaken, they're gravely damaged and it is this damage particularly that is the formation of mesothelioma! It must be noted that despite the defeat, the T-Cells are one extremely hardcore supreme fighting unit within the immune system, bacterial infections are generally kicked the crap out of in no time when stepping against these super-fighters! In the realm of the human body internally, defeating T-Cells is not a small thing at all! Pleural Mesothelioma becomes malignant when more parts of the lungs have been damaged than the human body can otherwise healthily do without.

In one way or another cancer affects us all, we've either been directly affected by it or know someone who has. In my childhood, I lost two angelic teachers who are now residing in Heaven & were like surrogate mothers to me. I loved them that much & still do. That's why writing about cancer to some is almost like nature second nature (sadly). When it's affected you, so voraciously that all of a sudden key figures in your life you knew as far as you could remember are just gone - away from this Earth & then you're just there now, in this world without them, it's hard not to have an idea of cancer or take an active stand against it. I'm sure I'm not the only one who hopes that with every new year that dawns upon us, we're taken several significant steps towards developing a vaccine for cancer! What a year that would be!

Don't you think we ought to know more about these diseases, in our own interest? Especially when it only requires a single isolated incidence of being exposed asbestos fibre & bang, there you have it & have now got a terminal illness? Construction sites aren't the only places known for asbestos problems in recent times; elementary schools, offices, mines, retail stores amongst other locations all made the list, without trying to scaremonger you. Read the news! Maybe it's not in covered in mainstream media but it's in the news nontheless. Google it!

Cancer kills more people than AIDS & yet more people tend to make themselves aware of AIDS & how to prevent it. Both are horrific, cancer is one sickness not be underrated, ever! Mesothelioma is a terminal condition. People who get it overwhelmingly die from it. In my time reading about mesothelioma, I've come across reading about only ONE person who miraculously survived it, & lived to tell his story. What a lucky guy! To the time where all people who develop mesothelioma can & WILL share his fortune!

References: Occupational & Environmental Medicine: Changing Trends In US Mesothelioma Incidence
http://oem.bmj.com/content/61/5/438.full

Wikipedia - The Free Encyclopedia: Mesothelioma
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesothelioma

Specialist Listings contains resources on mesothelioma & how current affairs & contemporary history affect people who suffer from it. It contains an up to date account of litigation experts on mesothelioma/asbestos-exposure cases, many of whom have impeccable reputations & impressive track records in their respective niches. More importantly, it provides a voice for people who have been affected by any of such diseases & strives to make their plight a lot more understandable to the vast majority of otherwise healthy people, so that more positive actions can be effected for the betterment and healing of cancer-inflicted people's lives. Bookmark Specialist Listings now at http://specialistlistings.blogspot.com/.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dotun_Adewunmi

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Mesothelioma Treatments and Information

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer with a terrifying death rate. Caused by asbestos this disease can take 40 to 50 years to show up, and then progresses at an alarming pace. Without treatment the prognosis of a Mesothelioma patient is approximately one year. Medical science has developed treatment options for Mesothelioma. Once detected it is important to begin with mesothelioma treatments as soon as possible to improve the prognosis.

Traditional Mesothelioma Treatments

Traditional treatments for Mesothelioma patients are much the same as any other type of cancer treatments. Surgery removes the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy uses drugs to fight the cancer and heal the cells. Radiation uses high dose x-rays kill the cells. Many times two or even all three of these are involved in treating a mesothelioma patient. The course of treatment depends on several factors, including the patients overall health, the stage of the mesothelioma, and the effectiveness the treatment is believed to have. For example if a patient is generally healthy and strong and the cancerous cells haven't spread noticeably to other areas, a doctor may perform surgery to remove the mesothelioma and then follow up with radiation to kill any cancerous cells that had spread. But if a patient is declining rapidly with a great deal of spreading the surgery would be left out of the treatment options and the doctor would proceed with Chemotherapy and Radiation treatments.

Uncommon Mesothelioma Treatments

These treatment options aren't as widely used and recognized as the three above, however depending on the stage of the cancer; doctors have seen great success in fighting mesothelioma with these treatments.

Photodynamic Therapy is most effective in patients who have a localized area of cancerous cells, and uses light energy to kill the cells. The patient is intravenously given a medication which will make cancer cells extremely sensitive to a particular type of light. Between 24 and 72 hours later the patient is placed under this type of light and the cells which have absorbed the medication are killed.

Gene Therapy uses genetic material to target cancer cells and make the more vulnerable to chemotherapy treatments. In this treatment a non-infectious virus is introduced that basically causes the cancer cells to commit suicide by creating a substance that will cause their death. While gene therapy has shown promising results it is only available through clinical trials.

Immunotherapy tricks the body's immune system into killing the cancer cells. This involves introducing a vaccine made from cancerous cells back into the body. At that time the immune system will recognize the vaccine and thus the cancer as being harmful and will naturally fight the cancer.

The experts in the medical science field are continuously running trials and searching for optional Mesothelioma treatments that will kill the cancerous cells and remove mesothelioma from the body. Any patient who has mesothelioma should discuss all the options with their physician and fight mesothelioma aggressively in order to get the disease out of their body and live a long healthy life.

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Identifying Asbestos Symptoms

Understanding and identifying asbestos symptoms is a must for anyone that works in removal services. Knowing the basics of the symptoms is also advisable to those that work or frequent in environments known for presenting a high risk of asbestos exposure. Older buildings, construction sites, and even automobiles that are not well maintained would be common examples of where asbestos accumulates.

And quite honestly, it never hurts for the "average person" to be aware of the symptoms of asbestos exposure because there is always a chance that an environment, no matter how nice it may look on the outside, could be filled with asbestos due to a lack of care or upkeep of the property.

One needs to be very mindful of the fact that exposure to asbestos could lead to contracting mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that can affect the heart, lungs, or abdomen. This is a highly aggressive form of cancer that spreads quite quickly. If not detected as soon as possible, it can spread to advanced stages rapidly. Without effective treatment or a proper diagnosis, it is doubtful the afflicted would last much longer than a year. Expiring after only a few months is not out of the question either.

Again, this is why a basic understanding of asbestos symptoms is a must. Here is a look at the most obvious of these symptoms....

Regardless of the particular region of the body the asbestos is afflicting two consistent symptoms would be weight loss and a loss of appetite. Obviously, these two symptoms alone would not automatically be considered indicators of a serious health disorder. But, if these two conditions are combined with other symptoms associated with asbestos exposure then a proverbial "red flag" must be raised.

Asbestos commonly impacts the lungs which mean various respiratory problems may arise when the lungs have been seriously irritated. Wheezing and shortness of breath would be a clear indication that something might be wrong with the lungs. If you are hearing a cracking type sound in the lungs when you inhale, this would be a serious indication a major problem is present. Those that are coughing blood will need to see a doctor immediately. Coughing blood would be a strong indication that the asbestos has led to lung cancer.

Abestos exposure can also impact the heart in a damaging way. Both heart and lung issues related to asbestos exposure could be indicated via chest tightness and chest pain. Chest pain is certainly not a symptom to take lightly. To seek qualified medical help when experiencing such pain would be well advised.

Abdominal problems related to asbestos symptoms would be evident in the stomach region. The most common of these symptoms would be severe swelling and pain in the abdominal region. A consistent high fever could be another common symptom to experience when suffering from asbestos induced abdominal issues. Bowel obstructions may also be common as would issues related to blood clotting. If left unchecked, abdominal related asbestos issues could lead to the onset of anemia.

When several symptoms are combined together this would be a greater indication that something serious is wrong. However, it is advisable not to make any assumptions about how serious or how un-serious the condition is based on own self-assessment. Doing so could prove disastrous since making assessments on one's own are not valid.

Only a qualified physician has the ability to make a proper diagnosis and would only do so after a batter of tests. Additionally, delaying a proper diagnosis can lead to any potential cancer spreading. With mesothelioma cancer, time is of the essence since the life expectancy for a person with untreated mesothelioma is very short. Once a correct diagnosis is made then appropriate treatment can be undertaken. Such treatment could likely prolong a person's life. Again, the quicker such treatment is performed the greater the odds it will be successful.

Never underestimate the severity of asbestos symptoms. What may seem like a "minor" problem could very well be a highly serious one...even a life threatening one. As such, the symptoms needed to be addressed immediately. Of course, prior to addressing the problem, it is necessary to identify the symptoms. This can only be done if you familiarize yourself with them.

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Hiring a Lawyer for a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit is not the difficult part of the equation. The difficulty comes into play when seeking the proper amount of damages for your pain and suffering. To errantly select a lawyer and rush into litigation would doubtfully lead to the desired outcome. As such, a proper approach is needed to increase the odds that the lawsuit ends up being a successful one.

Many people are seeking such legal remedies these days as the sheer numbers of diagnoses of mesothelioma cancer have increased tremendously over the past two decades. Despite the fact that more and more information has been discovered about the cancer risks associated with asbestos exposure, many older buildings are not effectively inspected for asbestos. Such a negligent oversight puts those entering such a building at needless and severe risk. In some cases, the exposure was so severe cancer developed in the exposed.

Do to the high number of mesothelioma diagnoses in recent years, a large number of lawsuits have been filed as a result. Filing such lawsuits in done for the obvious reason: there is a need to recoup costs associated with such a condition.

One thing that needs to be clearly understood prior to engaging in any legal action is that there are no guarantees of any outcome. This is true no matter how legitimate your claim is. Once a litigant realizes this fact, the litigant will understand the extreme need for hiring the right attorney to represent them in the case.

How do you know whether or not you are hiring the right attorney for the mesothelioma lawsuit? A multitude of factors will determine whether or not the attorney you are considering is the right one for your needs. Probably the most important factor would be the experience level of the attorney. Has this particular attorney represented a large number of litigants in mesothelioma cases? Experience counts for a lot and any lawyer that does have a lot of experience with such cases would be one well worth considering hiring.

It may be wise to define the experience the attorney possesses into more concrete terms. In other words, how many mesothelioma cases has the attorney represented? Does the attorney specialize in these types of cases or does are mesothelioma cases one type of case in a long list of liability areas in which the attorney represents?

There are also attorneys that take part in mesothelioma cases on an exclusive basis. In other words, they do not handle other civil cases and are experts in the exclusive representation of mesothelioma cases. Seeking out such specialists may be the better option since specialization can some with insights and experience other attorneys may not possess.

? Experience alone, however, is not an indication of skill. The attorney must have a "track record" for success litigation and settlements. Questions that need to be asked are:

? What percentage of cases represented are settled out of court and what percentage are litigated?

? Of the cases that go to litigation, what percentage is won?

? What is the average award received in a settlement and what is the average awarded judgment of a case that goes to civil trial?

Determining the definitive answer to all these questions is a must before selecting an attorney. The entire goal of entering into a lawsuit is to achieve financial compensation for all the trouble. The attorney's past performance can be considered the best indication of how the attorney will perform in the future. Examining the amount of monetary awards in litigation and settlements will yield the answers to any queries in this regard.

Also, it is necessary to determine the attorney's fees for representation. Will the attorney solely take a percentage of the settlement or the judgment or are other fees involved? There is no right or wrong way to charge clients. The client does, however, need to feel comfortable with the fee process. Entering into an agreement with an attorney and then having to dissolve the relationship over costs halfway through litigation could prove disastrous and is best avoided.

All in all, when you are seeking to file a mesothelioma lawsuit you want to hire the very best attorney for your needs. The reason for this is fairly obvious: You want to walk away from the litigation with a positive outcome. Without the right attorney in place, this would prove enormously difficult.

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The Truth About Mesothelioma Life Expectancy

Discussing the subject of mesothelioma life expectancy is certainly not a pleasant one. Yet, it is a subject that must be discussed if you have been diagnosed with the condition. Actually, it also is a subject that should be raised to those fearing they have been exposed to asbestos and have not undergone a proper diagnosis from a physician. Once such a person realizes the severe life threatening nature of mesothelioma, it is doubtful the individual will wait much longer for a proper diagnosis.

Once again, mesothelioma is a severe form of cancer. It has taken the lives of many people that have contracted it. As a result, it is vitally important to seek out medical treatment as soon as humanly possible as this will potentially increase the chances of survival of the person with cancerous tumors.

The outlook of a person suffering from mesothelioma will be based on several factors. The only way to determine these factors would be to undergo a complete examination designed to determine the severity of the condition. Whether or not the cancer was detected early or late; the stage of the cancer; and whether or not the cancer has spread through the body would all be among the factors associated with how long a person's life expectancy will be.

So, while there are no guarantees whatsoever in terms of how successful treatment may be, early detection will have the greatest impact on mesothelioma life expectancy. The survival rate increases when effective treatment is instituted. Note: treatment always has a greater chance of being successful when cancer is discovered at an early stage.

To repeat, there is no way to uniformly determine a blanket mesothelioma life expectancy. However, there are statistics available that allow for researchers to examine the average life expectancy of one suffering from this cancer. There are three major forms that mesothelioma takes: pleural mesothelioma which afflicts the lungs; peritoneal mesothelioma which deals with the abdominal region; and pericardial mesothelioma which is somewhat rare and affects the heart. A fourth form, testicular mesothelioma is extremely rare and hardly diagnosed. With the three major forms of the cancer, mesothelioma life expectancy will vary.

Pleural mesothelioma is an incurable form of cancer and if undetected and untreated the chances for survival will range from four to 18 months. Peritoneal mesothelioma will only yield a five month to 13 month outlook if not treated. Because pericardial mesothelioma is so rare and research is limited, an estimation of the average life span when not treated is very difficult to ascertain.

Of course, with appropriate treatment, the ability to extend one's life span dramatically is possible. This is because treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can slow down the growth and spread of the cancer cells. Chemotherapy and radiation may, potentially, destroy the cancer cells. Surgery can be employed to outright remove the cancerous tumors. The possibility of using combinations of any two or all three of the methods remains an option as well.

As previously mentioned, there will be a variety of factors that contribute to the ability for the treatment to be effective. The absence or presence of other diseases or disorders may play a role in how effective the treatment may be. In some instances, issues such as the actual location of the cancerous tumors can determine the treatment employed which, in turn, will affect life expectancy. A common example of that would be the presence of tumors near the heart. The high risk of performing surgery in such a region would often eliminate the procedure from consideration. The impact on one's life expectancy when procedures are reduced could possibly be negative.

Of course, a patient will need to do his or her part to extend life expectancy. Lifestyle choices can significantly impact how long or how short your life expectancy is. For example, someone that continues to smoke after being diagnosed with mesothelioma will drastically reduce his or her life expectancy. As such, it is well advised to follow all lifestyle suggestions made by a physician if the goal is to increase mesothelioma life expectancy.

The ability to extend mesothelioma life expectancy is never guaranteed. However, there are certainly ways this can be done. Determinations, however, will need to be made on a case by case basis.

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Little Known Asbestos Facts

Asbestos has been used for centuries. It was known for fire resistant properties even back in Greek and Roman times, it just wasn't called asbestos back then. Marco polo in fact wrote about a magic rug that was cleaned by throwing it in the fire, it is now thought this was a woven asbestos fibre mat. Slaves in roman times used to wear a shirt that was also cleaned by throwing the shirt in a fire, however the Romans also noticed that the slaves that were wearing the magic garment were dying of a horrible lung disease. For the Romans to call it a horrible death you just know it has to be a bad way to go.

Fast forward to the 1900's and asbestos was being used in everything from chimneys to brakes and everything in between. Asbestos can be found in walls, roofs, cladding, chimneys, toasters, hair dryers, brake pads, tiles, carpet underlay, insulation, garages, meter boxes just to name a few.

There are three types of asbestos white, brown and blue. White is the most common and is still legal to use in some countries (not Australia). Due to refining impurities a material that is made from white asbestos will still contain blue and brown asbestos, just not as much.

Blue and brown asbestos are deadly. Blue and brown asbestos was banned in Australia in 1983 and it is illegal to use in most countries today. Blue asbestos is the most deadly and is though to be responsible for most of the deaths caused by asbestos. Once an asbestos fibre is lodged in your lung it can stay there for life. When viewed from a microscope the fibre will appear as a pin. When cells try to encapsulate the asbestos fibre they are popped by the pin shaped asbestos fibre. This is why the asbestos fibre is deadly.

Asbestos is fire resistant, strong, light, cheap and resistant to mould and fungus. It was thought as the perfect building material, but it kills, sometimes it can take over thirty years for symptoms to appear and one they do most people are given six months to live. A friend of mine who is a nurse said she thought that asbestos disease was the worst way to go and that she had never seen anyone so much pain.

The asbestos that you can see floating around in the air will not kill you, it is not small enough to penetrate deep into your lung. It is the asbestos fibres you can't see that will harm you the most.

If performing asbestos work yourself read up on safety procedures and then follow them. People have died from an asbestos related disease from one time exposure to asbestos.

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Understanding a Mesothelioma Prognosis

A mesothelioma prognosis can range for a variety of different patients. Some may experience difficult prognosis and others may receive better and more positive news. Either way, mesothelioma remains a very serious disease that comes with a high fatality rate. This is why legal action against those that place people at risk to contracting mesothelioma is so aggressive.

Mesothelioma derives from exposure to asbestos which was commonly found in pipes in prior generations. At the time, it was not considered a harmful substance. Over the past two decades, the fact that exposure to asbestos can cause cancer was revealed. As a result, building owners have a responsibility to have asbestos detected and removed. Sadly, this does not always happen which leads to the unfortunate issue of those exposed suffering from this horrific form of cancer. Once a diagnosis has been made, the patient then needs to seek treatment.

Mesothelioma prognosis occurs immediately after the patient learns that he/she has the disease. A prognosis can be considered an overview of what the cancer will do in the body. The prognosis of what the course the cancer will follow will be dependent on many factors. Obviously, these factors will play a large role in whether or not the prognosis is a good or bad one.

One factor that can potentially impact whether or not the prognosis is positive will be early detection. The longer it takes for the cancer to be detected, the worse the prognosis will generally be. This is because the cancer will continue to spread if it is not detected and treatment starts. If the cancer has not spread significantly then the ability to treat it is enhanced. This is why those that feel they have been exposed to asbestos need to take immediate action and contact their physician for a complete examination.

Detection of mesothelioma will also entail determining where the cancer actually is. If the tumor is located in one area of the body, it may be likely that it can be surgically removed. If the tumors are spreading throughout the body then surgery could prove complicated or potentially impossible.

Once the cancer has been detected, the stage the cancer is in will be determined. There are four stages in a mesothelioma prognosis with stages three and four being the more severe and advanced. Anyone that is currently in such a stage would have a difficult time beating the cancer. Conversely, those that catch the condition early enough may be able to take steps needed to send the cancer in remission.

Again, this is why early detection is so important when discussing the prognosis of the mesothelioma. If the cancer can be caught in the very early stages, survival rate increases. Yet, no matter how early the cancer is detected, it will always remain life threatening with no guarantees the treatment will work. Such information is not presented to be downbeat. It is mentioned to explain the severity of the disease so that anyone that may have been exposed to asbestos understand the necessity of seeking a proper diagnosis from a physician.

The patient's overall health will play a role in the prognosis. This is not to say a person can be so healthy that the treatment will be "easier." However, a healthy person will have a stronger immune system and will be able to handle the treatment needed to deal with the cancer. Surviving mesothelioma is not easy. Some may find that survival of five years or so is the maximum they can achieve. Again, the individual's overall health will play a factor in the ability to handle the treatment.

Those that have been exposed to asbestos through negligence and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma should explore their legal options. The reason for this is there are a lot of costs associated with mesothelioma treatment along with great financial strain due to the inability to work when dealing with such cancer. A qualified attorney with experience handling mesothelioma cases would be the best professional to work with in such a situation.

A mesothelioma prognosis is a serious one. It requires immediate medical treatment and should also include the search for proper legal representation. Doing so makes the ability to deal with the condition more tolerable.

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Toenail Clipping Can Determine Lung Cancer Risk

Get this... a test of your toenail clippings can tell what your lung cancer risk from exposure to cigarettes, even if you're not a smoker!

This is the result of testing toenail clippings of 210 men diagnosed with lung cancer, plus 630 men used as disease free controls. The toenail clippings used for this research were donated by medical professionals taking part in the study.

Why use toenails, of all things?

The researchers were trying to find a way to measure exposure to secondhand smoke. They tried measuring nicotine levels in hair, but when researchers discovered toenail clippings from study participants they thought they may be useful. Since hair and toenails form from the same type of tissue, it might be possible to analyze them for nicotine.

Toenails represent your nicotine exposure of the last year, and have the advantage of not needing any special storage arrangements. Toenails grow fastest in young people and men, and for us all during the summer months.

Amazingly, the team found that nicotine levels in toenails are a reliable gauge of smoking status up to 6 years before the clippings were given. They are also able to predict heart disease risk in women. Females who had the highest nicotine levels in their toenails had a 42% greater chance of heart disease compared with those at the lowest nicotine levels.

The 20% of clippings with the highest levels of nicotine showed men at the greatest risk of developing lung cancer. They had a 10.5 times greater chance of this form of cancer compared with the 20% of participants who had the lowest amount of nicotine in their clippings. Even when accounting for smoking, men with the highest nicotine levels in the toenail had 3.5 times more risk of being diagnosed with lung cancer compared to those with the least amount of toenail nicotine.

As cancers go, cancer of the lung is one of the deadliest types for men and women. More die from lung cancer than cancer of the breast, colon and prostate combined. Most common in older people, this cancer is rare under 45 years old.

We know for certain that smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of lung cancer. A cause that can be prevented by never starting the habit, and avoiding sources of secondhand smoke.

Researchers now believe we have a valuable way to measure a patients' exposure and predict lung cancer risk, whether you smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke. Amazing that exposure to either kind of smoke can be detected all through your body, right down to your toes.

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Little Known Asbestos Facts

Asbestos has been used for centuries. It was known for fire resistant properties even back in Greek and Roman times, it just wasn't called asbestos back then. Marco polo in fact wrote about a magic rug that was cleaned by throwing it in the fire, it is now thought this was a woven asbestos fibre mat. Slaves in roman times used to wear a shirt that was also cleaned by throwing the shirt in a fire, however the Romans also noticed that the slaves that were wearing the magic garment were dying of a horrible lung disease. For the Romans to call it a horrible death you just know it has to be a bad way to go.

Fast forward to the 1900's and asbestos was being used in everything from chimneys to brakes and everything in between. Asbestos can be found in walls, roofs, cladding, chimneys, toasters, hair dryers, brake pads, tiles, carpet underlay, insulation, garages, meter boxes just to name a few.

There are three types of asbestos white, brown and blue. White is the most common and is still legal to use in some countries (not Australia). Due to refining impurities a material that is made from white asbestos will still contain blue and brown asbestos, just not as much.

Blue and brown asbestos are deadly. Blue and brown asbestos was banned in Australia in 1983 and it is illegal to use in most countries today. Blue asbestos is the most deadly and is though to be responsible for most of the deaths caused by asbestos. Once an asbestos fibre is lodged in your lung it can stay there for life. When viewed from a microscope the fibre will appear as a pin. When cells try to encapsulate the asbestos fibre they are popped by the pin shaped asbestos fibre. This is why the asbestos fibre is deadly.

Asbestos is fire resistant, strong, light, cheap and resistant to mould and fungus. It was thought as the perfect building material, but it kills, sometimes it can take over thirty years for symptoms to appear and one they do most people are given six months to live. A friend of mine who is a nurse said she thought that asbestos disease was the worst way to go and that she had never seen anyone so much pain.

The asbestos that you can see floating around in the air will not kill you, it is not small enough to penetrate deep into your lung. It is the asbestos fibres you can't see that will harm you the most.

If performing asbestos work yourself read up on safety procedures and then follow them. People have died from an asbestos related disease from one time exposure to asbestos.

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Little Known Asbestos Facts

Asbestos has been used for centuries. It was known for fire resistant properties even back in Greek and Roman times, it just wasn't called asbestos back then. Marco polo in fact wrote about a magic rug that was cleaned by throwing it in the fire, it is now thought this was a woven asbestos fibre mat. Slaves in roman times used to wear a shirt that was also cleaned by throwing the shirt in a fire, however the Romans also noticed that the slaves that were wearing the magic garment were dying of a horrible lung disease. For the Romans to call it a horrible death you just know it has to be a bad way to go.

Fast forward to the 1900's and asbestos was being used in everything from chimneys to brakes and everything in between. Asbestos can be found in walls, roofs, cladding, chimneys, toasters, hair dryers, brake pads, tiles, carpet underlay, insulation, garages, meter boxes just to name a few.

There are three types of asbestos white, brown and blue. White is the most common and is still legal to use in some countries (not Australia). Due to refining impurities a material that is made from white asbestos will still contain blue and brown asbestos, just not as much.

Blue and brown asbestos are deadly. Blue and brown asbestos was banned in Australia in 1983 and it is illegal to use in most countries today. Blue asbestos is the most deadly and is though to be responsible for most of the deaths caused by asbestos. Once an asbestos fibre is lodged in your lung it can stay there for life. When viewed from a microscope the fibre will appear as a pin. When cells try to encapsulate the asbestos fibre they are popped by the pin shaped asbestos fibre. This is why the asbestos fibre is deadly.

Asbestos is fire resistant, strong, light, cheap and resistant to mould and fungus. It was thought as the perfect building material, but it kills, sometimes it can take over thirty years for symptoms to appear and one they do most people are given six months to live. A friend of mine who is a nurse said she thought that asbestos disease was the worst way to go and that she had never seen anyone so much pain.

The asbestos that you can see floating around in the air will not kill you, it is not small enough to penetrate deep into your lung. It is the asbestos fibres you can't see that will harm you the most.

If performing asbestos work yourself read up on safety procedures and then follow them. People have died from an asbestos related disease from one time exposure to asbestos.

View the original article here

Mesothelioma Claim

If you or a member of your family have recently received a diagnosis of Mesothelioma, you will no doubt be keen to find out what help is available for those in your position. Apart from the obvious help you will need in dealing with illness and the trauma that surrounds it, you may be eligible to make a Mesothelioma claim for compensation. Compensation is paid where there is proven blame for the disease. However there are special rules for making a Mesothelioma compensation claim and you should take legal advice as soon as possible.

In the case of a Mesothelioma claim, compensation is typically claimed from the insurers of the company who are at fault for allowing you, or your family member, to come into contact with asbestos. Because Mesothelioma can take between 30 and 40 years to develop after exposure to asbestos, in most cases the companies responsible ceased to exist many years ago but compensation would be sought from the insurers of the company involved. The insurance companies need to be traced and blame has to be proved and it is important that legal advice be sought as soon as possible which will increase your chance of securing compensation.

There are legal experts who specialize in making a Mesothelioma claim and by making a quick search of the Internet you should be able to find one in your own locality. A local law firm is not essential, but experience in making Mesothelioma claims is. Although at this time there will be many important issues on your mind, it is worth taking the time to deal with the compensation issue at your earliest convenience, as you may find the compensation award very useful at a later date. Once you have secured the services of a Mesothelioma claim expert, they will deal with everything for you with regard to compensation, and you will be able to get on with other pressing issues.

A Mesothelioma claim will generally be made for compensation covering many different elements. For example, the illness itself, loss of earnings, items needed as a result of the illness, special foods, mobility aids, care provided by family members, care provided by professionals, hospital travelling expenses etc. All these extra costs you will incur will undoubtedly place a heavy burden on your financial situation, so it is imperative that you seek professional advice, and set the wheels in motion to get your Mesothelioma claim for compensation under way.

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Malignant Mesothelioma Prevention Information

Mesothelioma Information

The definition of risk factor is: when there's a high chance of getting a particular illness.

Studies have shown that with various types of cancers, there are alternative risk factors. With cancers such as lung or skin, the factors for these would be smoking and sunlight. With that said, mesothelioma cancer risks include working around asbestos dusk. The longer you work around asbestos, the greater the risk of getting malignant mesothelioma. Important: Please be aware that although the risk factors for most types of cancers might be high, there is no guarantee you will contract the disease.

In more than 80% of mesothelioma caused diseases, the cause is exposure from asbestos.

Throughout the first half of the 1900s, asbestos was used within multiple types of businesses. Whether it was on a naval ship or within the walls of a home, it made no difference. Asbestos was present and that was a big mistake. It wasn't until the late 90s that asbestos was prohibited in the United States. Asbestos has been prohibited for longer than that in the UK. Asbestos is a type of insulation used for various types of locations. The exposure to asbestos greatly increases the risk of getting malignant cancer; a cancer in which there is no cure. Patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma typically live up to 1 year longer (after detection).

If you've ever worked with asbestos, you'll know that with physical contact of the insulation, your skin/eyes burns like they're on fire. It's recommended that you use protective gear such as: masks, long-sleeved clothing, shoes, socks, and protective head-ware to prevent physical contact with asbestos.

As mentioned on our mesothelioma causes page, there are a number of possible factors that cause this particular cancer. There are other risk factors as well that may cause malignant mesothelioma. These include:

* Radiation: Some patients were exposed to radiation.
* Nonasbestos Mineral Fibers
* Simian Virus 40

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Some other factors may also include: chronic inflammation, chest injuries, organic and genetics chemicals.

Please note that cancer professionals and research scientists know that smoking does not cause mesothelioma, but it can aggravate other asbestos-related conditions (such as asbestosis) and lessens the body's ability to fight and cure the biological effects of the asbestos fibers. Asbestos exposure and smoking can increase a person's risk of getting lung cancer by as much as 84 times more than a person who does not smoke.

The EPA has reported that there is no safe way of working with asbestos.

OSHA has specific permissions of the amount of exposure per cubic centimeter for an average hour of 8.

Mesothelioma

The long-term affects of prolonged exposed to asbestos is almost completely deadly (due to the fact that not *everyone* will get mesothelioma). If you or someone you know works in an environment, in which your business or home is filled with asbestos, and you are in charge of working hands-on with asbestos, please report this information to an authority. Don't get caught up working for 5 years, like Catherine Potter, who now is suing the hospital she worked in (England) for 200,000 euros because she believes she has cancer. A cancer of which could have been controlled had she been warned she was working with it daily for long periods of time.

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Seeking Mesothelioma Compensation

Mesothelioma compensation is awarded to the plaintiff when the defendant in such a suit admits or is found liable causing the disease. Seeking such compensation should always be of primary concern to those afflicted with this form of cancer. Yet, many do not seek their just compensation. Why is this? A common misconception about mesothelioma or other medical related lawsuits is that they are intended to seek "revenge" for being made ill. Such an assessment is an obtuse one on many levels. The reason the afflicted seek a settlement or judgment is because of the enormous costs associated with suffering from the disease.

Mesothelioma is a serious condition as it is a form of cancer derived from exposure to asbestos. Often, the exposure is derived from negligence. One form of negligence would be a building's owner or management did not properly screen for mesothelioma and those in the building suffered from exposure. It is also not without precedent that those working in asbestos removal suffered from their exposure due to faulty protective equipment.

Regardless of the reason the exposure, mesothelioma is life threatening. To send mesothelioma into remission will require all manner of financial costs. This is the main reason why mesothelioma compensation needs to be sought after - the fees associated with medical bills need to be covered. Without the best of care, it would become much harder to reverse the condition.

Again, this is why seeking monetary awards is so important. The costs associated with treatment are so enormous funding said costs is a must if proper treatment is needed. And why shouldn't those that are responsible for the onset of the condition be held liable for its costs?

Once again, these costs can be considered significant. In addition to medical treatment, bills can amass from other sources as well...

Depending upon the current stage of the disease, the afflicted may not be able to work. While being legitimately unable to work may evoke sympathy from some, the situation does not automatically come with a waiver for financial responsibilities. Without a viable stream of money, financial stress is bound to increase significantly. Effective payments through a lawsuit or settlement could significantly alleviate the pressure associated with such financial strain.

Another area of mesothelioma compensation that needs to be addressed would be that of pain and suffering. Having to deal with extreme pain and discomfort mesothelioma causes may justify high financial compensation rewards. The law had remedies in place for those dealing with such suffering and it comes in the form of civil judgments. Those suffering from such a condition are well within their rights to seek such payments.

Questions will arise over the amount of compensation that can be awarded. Blanket answers to such questions are not really valid. There are no clear and set rewards for mesothelioma compensation. Some judgments are rather large and others can be modest. There are simply too many factors that weigh into how awards are made. The key point here is that the afflicted seek out a qualified and experienced attorney that specializes in these types of cases. Doing so will increase the likelihood that proper payment is achieved.

Payment can come in two forms. The first would be an out of court settlement and the other would be a judgment in the aftermath of a civil case. One is not better than the other and the decision to accept settlement vs. take the case to civil court. There are a significant number of factors that can go into the decision making process regarding how a particular litigation should move forward. Determining which direction to follow will be based on the litigant's situation and needs as well as the advice of legal counsel. Regardless of your own individual situation, all those involved with a mesothelioma case must seek the best outcome for their needs.

In short, they should seek the maximum amount of financial award which can be acquired in a manner the litigant is most comfortable pursuing. Discussing your specific options with a qualified attorney will boost the likelihood that you follow the proper course of action for your needs and requirements.

Seeking mesothelioma compensation is a process that should not be taken lightly. There are a great many complexities involved and making the right decisions will factor into your ability to receive just and equitable judgments. That is why proper deliberation must go into the process. Doing otherwise could limit claims immensely.

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Smoking and Its Effects on Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by exposure to deadly fibers of asbestos. Although this is a type of cancer that affects the plural lining of the lungs, it is not in fact lung cancer.

The prognosis for those afflicted with Mesothelioma is poor. Due to the difficulty of detecting symptoms and the extremely long dormancy period, many times Mesothelioma is not diagnosed until it is too late. When an individual is exposed to asbestos fibers, they become lodged in the pleura of the lungs where they will create scar tissue. This scar tissue will eventually turn carcinogenic and Mesothelioma will occur. Many people, even if only exposed for a short period of time to asbestos, may contract this disease.

Although smoking is a very quick way to damage lungs, it is important to understand that smoking does not cause Mesothelioma. However, smoking does complicate a person's chance of contracting the disease. Smoking may not cause Mesothelioma directly, but it can cause other life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema and asbestosis. Asbestosis is not a form of Mesothelioma, but it does assist in the development of the cancer.

If a patient is diagnosed with Mesothelioma, it is vital that they stop smoking immediately. The statistics that surround smoking are devastating. Although smoking does not cause Mesothelioma, it does increase the chance of contracting lung cancer by 50% or even more! A patient who is a smoker is more likely to have a lung-related disease than a person who has been exposed to Mesothelioma for several years. This prior fact goes to show just how damaging and serious the effects of smoking are on the lungs.

Both Mesothelioma and lung cancer caused by smoking are very serious due to their detection difficulty. The severity and type of symptoms are dependent upon many factors. For Mesothelioma patients, the amount of asbestos inhaled and the extent of exposure will determine the side effects and severity of the cancer. For lung cancer caused by smoking, the amount of smoking per day and how long a person has smoked will determine the side effects and severity.

A smoker who has been exposed to asbestos at any point in his or her life should get tested immediately for both Mesothelioma and other types of lung-related illnesses, even if symptoms are non-existent. Again, it is important to understand that Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer are two separate types of cancers, both dealing with the lungs or surrounding organs.

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Getting To Know The Causes Of Mesothelioma

Gone were the days when Methuselah enjoyed life for 969 years without even being stricken by a disease, that is so life-threatening. The big C, as we often call cancer, was never heard then. At this day and age, the ill-effects of our own unhealthy lifestyle plague us; of the environment, we thrive and varied toxic substances that we, knowingly or unknowingly take-in everyday. It becomes a bonus when we reach the age of 69, that is, by the way, 900 years behind Methuselah's long life. Despite the age of scientific finds and technological advancement, it is an irony that life span is cut short by a staggering 93%.

One of the primary causes of death in the 21st century is Cancer. The most- dreaded disease has overwhelmed the world with a record high of 33,900 deaths each year in the United States alone. Cancer is always believed to carry the "death sentence" most of which, we all know causes prolonged pain, agonizing effects on family members and results to untimely and painful passing away.

Although the number of deaths caused by cancer in the United States has actually decreased for the very first time in a period of 70 years, (the early cancer records began in the 1930's), the fact still prevails, Cancer is a dreadful disease, deadly and shattering. One of the rarest forms of cancer is Mesothelioma. As uncommon as its name suggests, this cancer starts its development from the methoselium, the protective lining of the body's internal organs. The most common cause of Mesothelioma is the overexposure to asbestos. This just reinforces the fact that environmental factors are likely the distinguishing causes of cancer, basically from poor nutrition, too much sunlight, smoking, obesity, free radicals and air pollutants in the environment.

Four parts of the body to which Mesothelioma take place are the following: pleura, the lungs' outer lining and internal chest wall; peritoneum, the abdominal cavity lining; pericardium, a sac that surrounds the heart and the tunica vaginalis, a sac that covers the testis.

People who suffer from Mesothelioma can trace back their life and exposure to asbestos and glass particles. Most often than not, these people are directly exposed with jobs using either asbestos or indirectly involved with them like washing clothes with a loved one exposed to asbestos or inhaling residue from a nearby asbestos company. Although Lung Cancer is largely related to Mesothelioma, smoking is not the main cause of this dismaying disease, but it still intensifies the plausible risk of it.

The main causes of Mesothelioma would greatly comprise weight loss, loss of appetite, chest pains and shortness of breath. Although rare, Mesothelioma, when detected early can be countered with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and sometimes, surgery.

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