Does Asbestos Kill? Explaining the Link Between Mesothelioma and Asbestos
You might have heard the word asbestos in TV shows, news programs, or maybe read it from magazines and books. There are many scientific studies proving the relationship between exposures to asbestos linked to some health hazards like Mesothelioma.
Asbestos is composed of 6 minerals which are amosite, actinolite, chrysotile, crocidolite, tremolite and anthophyllite. Asbestos is a very useful type of material especially for industrial purposes however it is a known human carcinogen. It is famous for its strength, high resistance to fire, resistance to chemical andelectrical damage and it is also affordable but when inhaled it can cause asbestos related diseases. Asbestos, once inhaled, causes scarring of the lining of the lungs which consequently restricts an individual’s ability to breath. There are still some products that we are using right now that may have asbestos content without us knowing. Some of these products are tiles, cement, vinyl walls or flooring, hair dryer, popcorn poppers, fertilizers, fire blankets, gloves and many more. But do you know that prolong exposure to asbestos may lead to a serious illness called Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer affecting the lining of the organs of the body including the lungs (Pleural Mesothalemia). It is a fatal condition and the prognosis is also not good. People who acquired this illness are those who have been long exposed to asbestos fibers. Common signs and symptoms of the disease are coughing, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing, wheezing and sudden weight loss. These indications, in some cases, usually do not occur even after 20 or more years of prolong exposure to asbestos dust. There are some medical diagnostic exams to confirm mesothelioma such as biopsy. It is true that the longer you are exposed to asbestos, the more likely you will have mesothelioma. However, there were some reports showing that even those who have been exposed to abestos in just a short while have developed cancer. The rate of Mesothelioma is higher to those who have served the US Armed Forces years ago. This is because they have used abestos for a lot of military tools and equipment long before they have realized its bad effects.
Treatments for Mesothelioma include radiation and/or chemotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy. The earlier you detect the presence of the cancer cells, the better the prognosis is. So if you happen to experience any of the given indicators and you have been exposed to asbestos, consult with your doctor immediately. Diagnostic tests will be done immediately and if Mesothalioma is detected, treatment can start immediately.
It is said that prevention is better than cure and it is actually true. Avoid exposing yourself to asbestos or going to places where there is higher percentage of asbestos usage. Your immune system also plays a greater part in fighting off diseases so take good care of it. Eat healthy and exercise regularly.