What are the Causes of Mesothelioma?

Know the causes of mesothelioma

In the medical sector, Mesothelioma cancer is often described as a rare cancer caused completely by exposure to asbestos. It affects the threadlike protective membrane that surrounds the lungs, heart and abdominal cavity. It has been documented that there are approximately 3,000 cases diagnosed in the United States every year. Most of these conditions are traced to an occupational exposure.


While the use of asbestos has been minimized significantly during the past years, the occurrence of mesothelioma cancer has been steady. In fact, it can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos before noticeable indications come out and a perfect diagnosis is conducted. Nonetheless, substantial progress has been made in the past regarding treatment options and different alternative therapies. Yet, no cure has been discovered until now and the projections remain negative.

The examination process is quite complicated and it is worth taking a look at the procedures involved to know mesothelioma cause. Normally, the physician can take a look at an aperture in the abdomen using a special device called the Peritoneoscope. This implement consists of a tube with a camera, eyepiece and light that enable the doctor to scrutinize thoroughly the interior portion of the stomach. An incision is performed so the instrument can be placed between inside. A sedative is given to the patient before the test although in most instances, there is no feeling of any pain or major discomfort.

When findings reveal that there is an abnormality in the tissue, a small portion is cut to find out if cancer cells are present. The possibility of recuperation depends on different factors such as the age of the patient, extent of the cancer, where it is located how it reacts to certain kinds of treatment. A lot of private clinics and hospitals are now offering a variety of treatments for this rare type of cancer which affects the Mesothelium or a threadlike membrane that can be found in the inner surface of the chest wall or abdomen. Both types mature rather slow and can take up to fifty years after prolonged exposure to asbestos. While it has been diagnosed as incurable, the different treatments can stretch the patient’s life and make it bearable.