Mesothelioma
is a cancer of the cells that make up the lining around the outside
of the lungs and inside of the ribs, or around the abdominal organs.
The only known cause of mesothelioma in the U.S. is previous exposure
to asbestos fibers. Although asbestos manufacturers knew about the
hazards of this product seventy years ago, this knowledge was not
shared with the general public. The first warnings to workers exposed
to asbestos came in the mid-1960s. This information, however, was
sketchy and inadequate. Even today, workers are not always told
they are working around asbestos and are at risk for asbestos disease.
While there is currently no known cure for malignant mesothelioma, treatments are available with the most common being surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The course of mesothelioma treatment treatment will depend on a number of factors including the location of the disease, the stage of the disease, your age, overall health and your preferences.
