Understanding Causes of Mesothelioma & Treatment Options

mesothelioma-treatment

Mesothelioma is an extremely uncommon cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells that line the body’s vital organs, most notably the lungs, abdomen, & heart. Mesothelioma is caused mostly by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring substance that was extensively used in construction and industries up until the 1980s. This article will go over the many factors that might lead to mesothelioma, as well as the various treatments that are now accessible to those who are diagnosed with this disease.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma is almost always the result of contact with asbestos. The asbestos fibers are very fine and can go airborne, making it simple to inhale and ingest them. Mesothelioma is cancer that develops when these fibers enter the body and get trapped in the mesothelial cells, where they cause inflammation and damage. Even if someone is exposed to asbestos, there is no guarantee that they will get mesothelioma. However, the probability of contracting the illness rises in tandem with the exposure’s length and severity.

Also Read: How To Get Unbloated in 5 Minutes

Environmental exposure

Individuals can also develop mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos outside of the workplace in their environment. This can occur when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, such as during natural disasters or demolition work, and the fibers are released into the air. 

Other Risk Factors

The majority of mesothelioma cases are linked to asbestos exposure, although there are other potential factors to consider.

  • Age: Most people diagnosed with mesothelioma are over the age of 65 because of the increased risk associated with aging.
  • Gender: Males are disproportionately exposed to asbestos in male-dominated sectors, making mesothelioma more prevalent in males than females.
  • Genetics: Certain genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma, although more research is needed to understand the link between genetics and the disease fully.

Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

If you experience the symptoms of mesothelioma such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, lumps under the skin on the chest, difficulty swallowing, or night sweats, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. While these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, they may indicate the presence of mesothelioma, especially if you have a history of asbestos exposure.

If diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to start treatment as soon as possible. Treatment options depend on the stage of the condition, the location and extent of the tumors, and the overall health of the patient.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first-line treatment for mesothelioma, particularly if the cancer is localized and has not spread to other body parts. The purpose of major surgery is to eradicate the disease entirely.

Depending on the location and stage of cancer, different types of surgery may be performed, including:

  • Pleurectomy and decortication (P/D): This involves removing the lining of the lungs and any visible tumors.
  • Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): This involves removing the affected lung, the lining of the lungs, and any nearby tissues that may be affected.
  • Cytoreductive surgery with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): This specialized type of surgery involves removing the tumor and bathing the abdominal cavity with heated chemotherapy drugs to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves exposing cancer cells to intense radiation in order to kill them. This therapy may be used alone or in addition to other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy. It is the objective of radiation therapy to minimize the tumor’s size and also to arrest the growth of cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

The goal of chemotherapy is to eradicate any remaining cancer cells. You may utilize this therapy in addition to surgery and radiation therapy or on its own. While most chemotherapy medications are administered intravenously, oral and inhalation formulations are also available. Chemotherapy is used to diminish the development of cancer cells and enhance patients’ quality of life.

Coping with Mesothelioma

A diagnosis of mesothelioma is devastating news. Yet, you may take steps to decrease the condition’s influence on your life.

Seek support 

It can be helpful to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Support groups, either in-person or online, can provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their experiences and emotions.

Take Care of Yourself

Coping with mesothelioma can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. This may include engaging in gentle exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and getting adequate rest.

Stay Informed

Learning about mesothelioma and its treatments can help patients feel more empowered and informed about their options. It can also be helpful to research reputable sources of information, such as the American Cancer Society, to get accurate and up-to-date information about the disease.

Conclusion

Asbestos exposure may cause mesothelioma, a deadly form of lung cancer. Nevertheless, there are treatments that may be used to keep the condition under control and improve the quality of life. There is no time to waste if you’ve been exposed to asbestos or have been diagnosed with mesothelioma; get checked out immediately and talk to your doctor about your choices. Don’t forget to take care of yourself physically and emotionally, and lean on those closest to you at this trying time.