Before we jump into things here, we should start by having a quick look at what causes mesothelioma.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of minerals composed of rather long, thin fibrous crystals. The name “asbestos” comes from a Greek word that means inextinguishable. When it was first discovered, the Greeks gave asbestos the term “miracle mineral” because of its soft and pliant properties. It is also able to withstand extremely high temperatures.

Where Is Asbestos Used?

With the industrial revolution, asbestos gained popularity with manufacturers and builders due to its resistance to heat, electricity and chemical damage, its sound absorption and tensile strength. Usually, when asbestos is used a fire or heat resistant material, the mineral is often mixed with a cement base. Other uses of asbestos also include automobile functions such as brake shoes and gaskets, and in the past asbestos was used for electric oven and hotplate wiring because of its electrical insulation capabilities. It was also used in buildings, particularly for its ability to insulate, and for its flame-resistant properties and strength.

Is Asbestos Dangerous?

Beyond its usefulness as a “miracle material” is now widely known as a highly toxic material that should be avoided at all costs. The number one cause of asbestos related illness is from the inhalation of asbestos fibers, which can cause very serious illnesses, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. Currently, the majority of uses for asbestos have now been banned in many countries due to the serious health risks it imposes.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer whose number one caues is exposure to asbestos. The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers most of the internal organs in your body. The disease sees malignant cells develop in the mesothelium. When asbestos is cut, or broken, anyone nearby stands a great chance of inhaling the dust, and the most common site of mesothelioma the pleura, or the outer lining of the lungs and chest cavity It also occurs in the the lining of the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity, as well as the protective covering of the heart, know as the pericardium.

The most common cases of mesothelioma stem from individuals who have worked on jobs where they were exposed to asbestos particles. It doesn’t end there though; many people have developed the disease through being exposed to asbestos dust by washing clothing articles of a family member who worked with asbestos.

What Are The symptoms of Mesothelioma?

For more information on Mesothelioma, visit:

National Cancer Institute

Asbestos Institute