As a thoracic surgeon, I see patients with mesothelioma, an extremely rare type of cancer that affects the lining of certain organs, usually the lungs.
We don’t always know why mesothelioma develops in some people and not in others. But we do know that asbestos exposure is the main risk factor. This doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get mesothelioma if you’ve been around asbestos. Most people do not. But your risk may be higher if you were exposed to a lot of asbestos for a long time. Your genes, family history, and whether you’ve ever had chest radiation therapy may also affect your mesothelioma risk.
Sources of asbestos exposure
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral in soil and rocks. Asbestos fibers are tough and heat-resistant. It was used a lot in the past in products that had to be strong and able to withstand heat. Automobile brakes, insulation, boiler components, shingles, and flooring are a few examples.
When materials made with asbestos are damaged or disturbed, their fibers or dust may become airborne and inhaled or swallowed. This can lead to mesothelioma.
Although use of asbestos is much less than in the past, it is still used in some products and present in a large variety of equipment that were built years ago for heat-related purposes, such as furnaces or pipes. In addition, cases are now frequently reported in patients who used talcum powder contaminated with asbestos. Each year, around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
As I tell my patients, there are many ways you might have encountered asbestos, including:
At work. You could be exposed to asbestos because of work you do or have done in the past. This is the most common way people with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos. People who may have been exposed to asbestos include those who worked in:
- Building demolition (especially taking down old buildings)
- Home and building remodeling
- Asbestos mining
- Plumbing or pipe fitting
- Shipyards
- Factories
- Firefighting
- Auto shops
Some workers today are still exposed to asbestos. If you currently work around asbestos — something your employer should be able to verify — you should take steps to safeguard your health. This may include wearing protective equipment and following workplace safety rules.
You can also talk with your provider to learn more ways to prevent asbestos exposure.
While serving in the military. Asbestos was often used in fireproofing and for other purposes in aircraft, equipment, ships, and on bases.
At home. Some older homes may have asbestos insulation, flooring, siding, pipe wraps, or other such materials. If you have old stovetop pads or ironing board covers, they could be made of asbestos too. But just because it’s there doesn’t mean it’s hazardous. In fact, it’s usually best to leave asbestos alone, as long as it’s in good condition. If it’s falling apart or damaged by remodeling, however, it could release asbestos fibers into the air.
If you think your home might have an asbestos problem, have a qualified asbestos expert check it out. You should not try to remove or repair any asbestos yourself. Let the pros handle it. If you disturb the asbestos fibers, they could get into the air and you could inhale them.
Through secondhand exposure. You may have been exposed to asbestos if you lived with someone who works with it. Asbestos workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing.
In public or commercial buildings. Asbestos may be in some public buildings, including older schools. As is the case with asbestos in homes, the fibers aren’t very likely to pose a health risk unless the materials are disturbed and asbestos is released into the air. That could happen, for instance, if the asbestos-containing materials decompose over time, or if remodeling or removal takes place. Federal law requires schools to regularly inspect asbestos-containing materials.
Why knowing your risk matters
I think everyone should know about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. It may help you avoid this cancer by taking precautions to avoid inhaling asbestos dust and fibers.
It’s also important to talk with your provider if you have been around asbestos. That’s particularly important if you have symptoms such as shortness of breath and ongoing chest pain. These are two key symptoms of mesothelioma. We don’t have a cure for mesothelioma yet. But treatment and support are available. It’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis as early as possible.
See a mesothelioma specialist
If you’re concerned about the health risks of possible asbestos exposure or you want a second opinion after a mesothelioma diagnosis, you can count on the specialists at the Temple Lung Center. Through the Mesothelioma Program, our world-renowned surgeons, oncologists, and researchers have extensive experience with advanced mesothelioma treatments, including nonsurgical and surgical options. Our patients also benefit from guidance and support throughout their mesothelioma journey.
To make an appointment with a Temple mesothelioma specialist, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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