Asbestos is a group of minerals that occurs naturally in the form of bundles of fibers.These fibers can be converted into thin threads that are resistant to heat, chemicals and are not conductors of electricity.Basically, asbestos is a silicon based compound with several variants such as amphibole, chrysotile.Etc.Asbestos can be found in construction cement, insulation, roofing, boilers, steam pipes, hot water pipes and a host of other products.In the 1900s, asbestos was linked to a series of respiratory problems that were collectively known as asbestosis.Later, in the 1950s, the link between asbestos and mesothelioma was made.Asbestos is now recognized as one of the most potent carcinogens in our environment.Yet, even today, asbestos can be found in many products of daily life (ex.Fireproof clothing, caulk, clutch plates, brake pads.Etc.).Who are at risk of developing mesothelioma?Asbestos is especially dangerous to those people who work regularly with it.When an asbestos-containing material is disturbed, the fibers are released in the atmosphere and can be inhaled by people in that environment.Construction works (e.G.Renovation of old buildings constructed with asbestos-containing cement), pipefitting and other such works can release asbestos fibers which can then be inhaled by workmen.Secondary exposure has also been known to occur.Asbestos fibers collected as dust on the clothes and hair of workers can be inhaled by their family members.It is known that an exposure of as low as two months is sufficient to result in mesothelioma 30-40 years down the line.Factors affecting the risk of developing mesothelioma.Several factors determine whether asbestos exposure will cause mesothelioma cancer in the future..* Dose (how much asbestos is inhaled) * Duration (length of exposure to asbestos) * Type of asbestos fiber (for mesothelioma, amphibole fibers are considered to be more dangerous because they remain in the lungs longer and migrate to the mesothelial layer).* Individual risk factors such as smoking and preexisting lung conditions.How asbestos causes Mesothelioma cancer?Once inhaled, asbestos causes cells to die causing the lungs to become scarred.Asbestos fibers slowly work their way towards the alveoli and eventually into the mesothelium.For a while now, scientists have been unable to determine the precise pathway by which asbestos fibers cause cancer.This is because asbestos is supposedly necrotic in nature (i.E.It kills cells).Dead cells are not supposed to multiply and produce tumors.It is only recently, in 2010, that this paradox was resolved.Asbestos fibers cause programmed cell necrosis which releases a molecule known as high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB 1) protein.HMGB1 initiates an inflammatory reaction that results in the production of mutagens and tumor growth factors.Mutagens damages the DNA of the cells including those parts that regulate cell reproduction.Cells begin to reproduce uncontrollably forming tumors.The growth factors encourage the tumors to expand hence resulting in mesothelioma and lung cancer, depending on the site of the damage.

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.