Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the thin cell walls that envelops the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second rarest form of the disease and accounts for approximately 300 to 500 new cases in the United States each year.
Exposure to Asbestos and Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Many people who have worked with asbestos materials contracted peritoneal mesothelioma decades later as a result of exposure to asbestos particles on the job. Asbestos was heavily used in numerous construction materials and industrial products. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma cancer.
What Causes Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
According to research, peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a microscopic natural fiber that was used for its heat and insulating properties in industries such as:
- Factories
- Oil Refineries
- Insulation Manufacturing v
- Oil Refineries
- Power Plants
- Automotive
- Aluminum plants
- Demolition sites
- Construction sites
- Paper and Pulp Mills
- Railroads
- Steel mills
- Naval Shipyards
Risk Factors for Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare disease that accounts for approximately500 diagnoses each year in the United States. The latency period between the first exposure to asbestos and the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can take anywhere from 15 to50 years to become apparent. Misdiagnosis in mesothelioma cases is also common because the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are very similar to other illnesses.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treatment and Prognosis
The prognosis of peritoneal mesothelioma patients is very poor. The most common peritoneal treatment regimen includes treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, when the disease is detected in its earlier stages, mesothelioma patients may receive surgery and other treatments which could add years to the prognosis. This is why it is important for those with a history of exposure to asbestos to get regular testing for asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestos Exposure and Victims Legal Rights
If you have been exposed to asbestos, you must speak with your doctor or a cancer specialist if you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma. If you believe that you are a victim of asbestos exposure, you may be eligible for financial compensation. For additional information on your legal rights regarding asbestos exposure, mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos-related diseases, please contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney immediately to review your case.
Tags: Asbestos, Peritoneal Mesothelioma, Risk FactorsCategories: Asbestos, Mesothelioma, Mesothelioma Patients
