Asbestos Cancer - Symptoms, Occupational Exposure & Treatment

Asbestos cancer is caused by cancerous tumors that grow mainly in the lungs but can also appear in the Mesothelium, which is the thin lining that surrounds the internal organs in the body. Asbestos inhalation or ingestion is the number one risk factor for all asbestos exposure related cancers like Mesothelioma cancer.

Occupational Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos was once used in many products and materials commercially and for construction. Asbestos Exposure was thought to be safe, and was very popular because it was light, tough, heat resistant, and impervious to flame. Most people that contracted asbestos cancer were exposed to the substance via their occupation. The places where they were employed used or had asbestos present and they inhaled or ingested its fibers. Many folks were also exposed to asbestos in their own homes unbeknownst to them.

Exposure to Asbestos Cancer

It does not take much exposure to asbestos to cause cancer. Many times those that worked with asbestos for only a short time contracted the cancer. For some asbestos cancers like Mesothelioma it can be 20 to 40 years before symptoms occur.

Symptoms of Asbestos Cancer

The symptoms for asbestos related cancer vary, however, most that have been diagnosed report the following;

  • Shortness of breath
  • Constant dry cough
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Pain in the affected area

Treatment for Asbestos Cancer

Some asbestos cancers can be treated while others cannot, for example Mesothelioma cancer only has palliative treatments because currently there is no cure for this cancer. Each victim of asbestos cancer has a different treatment plan based on different factors. Typical asbestos cancer treatments are surgery, chemical therapy, radiation treatments or a mixture of these.

Cure for Asbestos Cancer

Researchers and oncologists are currently testing cures at many cancer centers all over the United States; however as of now no cure for Mesothelioma cancer has been discovered. Scientists are attempting to develop new and effective drugs and techniques to treat Mesothelioma patients.

Those Concerned About Past Exposure to Asbestos Cancer

If you are concerned about past exposure to asbestos, you should not panic. This disease is still rare; however, you should make your doctor aware of your exposure and have him or her check you regularly for any problems.

There many good sources of information on Asbestos cancer. If you have further questions, consult your doctor and this site for help locating these resources.

Asbestos Cancer Ban on Asbestos
Asbestos and Risk Factors Asbestos Lawyer
Asbestos Locations Types of Asbestos Exposure
Where does Asbestos Exposure Occur?