Tuesday, October 25, 2005

Exposure to Asbestos While Working at a Shipyard?

If you worked at a Navy Shipyard, you may have been exposed to asbestos. During the construction and maintenance of American warships and other large vessels, shipyard wokrers and military personnel were commonly exposed to asbestos-containing boilers, insulation, turbines, pipe covering, pumps, gaskets and other asbestos containing products. Learn More

Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma

 

Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is a quite uncommon type of cancer caused due to asbestos exposure. While it is difficult to diagnose Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma, it hardly responds to any type of therapy. This is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. The possibility of finding this type of cancer is on the lips and the larynx. However, in certain cases it may affect the oral cavity as well. Like all other forms of mesothelioma cancers, this cancer is a fatal disease and hardly responds to any method of treatment. Even though radiation therapy is recommended for the treatment of these cancerous tumors, but some of them may not be radiosensitive and may defy radiation for treatment.

Diagnosis of Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma:

The differentiation of sarcomatoid mesothelioma from other cell tumors by light microscopy is quite difficult. The role of immunohistochemistry is also not well defined in its diagnosis. Since sarcomatoid mesothelioma is not always cytokeratin-negative, the distinction between it and sarcoma is not always possible. In this context, the doctors undertook a study to investigate the utility of diagnostic immunohistochemistry for distinguishing sarcomatoid mesothelioma from its histological mimics, high-grade sarcoma and pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma.

For its study, the researchers stained the mesotheliomas with sarcomatoid components. They assessed the intensity and distribution of staining with the help of a semi quantitative scale. Only tumors with unequivocal staining were considered positive for tabulation. Then they compared the immunophenotypic profiles of these tumors with 24 high-grade sarcomas. The sarcomatoid carcinomas were also stained for thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1).

The study showed that Cytokeratin 5/6 stained most of the epithelioids but the sarcomatoids were rarely stained. On the other hand, Calretinin and thrombomodulin each stained 70% of sarcomatoid. All 10 sarcomatoids were negative for TTF-1. This led to the conclusion that a wide immunophenotypic overlap exists among different sarcomatoids. Cytokeratin and calretinin have the most value in differentiating different sarcomatoids. Clinicopathological data, especially information about the gross appearance of the tumor is quite important for sarcomatoid tumors. Thus, it should be noted and carefully correlated with microscopic and immunohistochemical findings.

Kirsten Hawkins is a asbestos and mesothelioma specialist from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.asbestosblog.org/ for information on asbestos reform, mesothelioma lawsuit news, and more.

Asbestos and Mesothelioma

 

Asbestos is the biggest work place killer today. Those who have worked with asbestos or who are regularly in contact with someone who has are at risk from asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. All these are fatal respiratory diseases which are extremely difficult to cure. Research is being carried out in various research labs all over the USA and many pharmaceutical companies are also endeavouring to find new drugs and treatment methods.

One rare disease caused by asbestos which is becoming increasingly common is mesothelioma. Although unknown by many today, it is almost certain that awareness of this disease will be broadcasted worldwide because of its increasing occurrence in men aged between 55 and 70. Many of these men are now lodging multi million dollar lawsuits against the companies who subjected them to asbestos. Those most at risk from mesothelioma are those who have been in regular contact with asbestos dust and fibres without sufficient protection. Just a couple of months of exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma 30 years later. The latency period (amount of time the disease takes to start taking effect) of mesothelioma is 30 - 50 years which is one of the reasons it is so difficult to cure because it is very difficult to tackle in its early stages. Another reason it is so difficult to cure is that its early symptoms are characteristic of many other more common diseases such as pneumonia.

Mesothelioma symptoms include:

- Chest pains - Coughing that worsens over time - Weight loss - Shortness of breath - Coughing up blood - Nausea and vomiting - Fatigue - Wheezing - Lung infection - Swollen lymph nodes - Loss of appetite

A patient will feel symptoms depending on which type of mesothelioma he or she has got. For information on the different types of mesothelioma go to: www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk

In the next 35 years it is estimated that over 1 million people will die from asbestos related diseases in developed countries. Most of these people will die from lung cancer and mesothelioma as these two are the most prolific asbestos related diseases.

All the detailed information you need on the symptoms, treatment, risks, science and more about asbestos can be found at:

http://www.asbestos-resource.co.uk

Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma Cancer main factors

Mesothelioma cancer can strike anyone, but appears more often in men than in women. It is a disease mainly linked to asbestos and smoke, since most people who have worked on jobs where they breathed in asbestos particles, have developed this pathology.

Experts believe that smoking does not seem to be a directly related risk for developing the disease only by its own, but its combination with asbestos exposure increases the risk of Mesothelioma, so stop smoking if you are exposed to asbestos in your workplace.

According to statistics eight out of ten of all reported cases were exposed to asbestos, however there are cases of people that have not had any exposure to the fibers of this mineral.

Therefore, the main risk factor for developing Mesothelioma can be found in asbestos, a group of fibrous metamorphic minerals which have an special resistance to fire. Asbestos have been exploited for a variety of purposes, such as industrial products, roof shingles and flooring products.

However, some uses of asbestos are banned in many countries, since it is known that the inhalation of some kinds of asbestos fibers can cause various illnesses, including Mesothelioma, lung, larynx and kidney cancer and asbestosis, a chronic lung ailment, but a non cancerous pathology.

Most asbestos fibers are invisible to the unaided human eye and the problem increases because just one asbestos fiber can become the source of hundreds of thinner and smaller fibers over time. As they get smaller and lighter, they become more mobile and more easily to be driven and carried by the air.

That is why people who work in asbestos mines and mills or producing asbestos products must wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure, according to acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United States.

In order to reduce your chance of getting ill with some of the asbestos-related diseases if you are a asbestos worker, is not only to wear the proper clothes and equipment, but also take a shower and change your clothing before leaving the workplace to diminish the possibility of dust brought home on your clothing or hair.

Article written by the staff of Mesothelioma -10.com a website edited by Hector Milla, if you want to read more articles about mesothelioma cancer information, feel free to visit http://www.mesothelioma-10.com , you can reprint this article in your website or ezine, always mentioning the author above and keeping a live link.


 

What is mesothelioma

"Mesothelioma" is the term used to describe a cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelial cells of an organ. Mesothelial cells are cells that form a protective lining over the lungs, heart and abdominal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. The pleura is a thin membrane found between the lungs and the chest cavity. It provides a lubricated surface so that the lungs do not rub and chafe against the chest walls. What causes it? Virtually all cases of mesothelioma are related to inhaling of asbestos fibers. There are about 3,000 cases per year (mostly men over the age of 40) and there will be about 300,000 cases before 2030. Mesothelioma usually spreads rapidly through the mesothelial cells to the heart and abdominal organs. The life span is typically 24 months after diagnosis, but it depends on what stage the cancer is detected, the health of the patient and other factors. Although asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma, it has a latency period after exposure that could last 15 to 50 years. This means that someone who worked in a factory with asbestos 40 years ago could be developing mesothelioma now. Anyone who knows they were exposed to loose asbestos fibers should be tested regularly for mesothelioma.

Diagnosis The onset of mesothelioma is usually very slow. The first symptom is a constant pain in the chest. This pain is later accompanies by difficulty breathing due to an accumulation of fluid in the chest. Other symptoms include coughing, fever and weight loss. Mesothelioma can be diagnosed by your doctor with a chest CT-scan.

Prognosis (the outcome) Mesothelioma advances in 4 stages: Stage I - the tumor is limited to the area of the lining of the lung and usually limited to only one side of the chest. Stage II - the tumor extends to other organs within the chest cavity, such as the heart or lymph nodes in the chest. Stage III - the tumor expands to the other side of the chest or it spreads into the abdominal organs. The lymph nodes outside the chest are affected. Stage IV -the cancer spreads to different parts of the body far outside the chest area (liver, brain, bone, etc...).

Mesothelioma is an extremely deadly disease. The average survival time is about one year from date of diagnosis. About 20% of patients who find their cancer early and treat it aggressively will reach the five-year mark. for more information and articles about mesothelioma go to http://www.mesothelioma-health.net

All Rights Reserved. 2004-2005. http://www.Mesothelioma-health.net

Mesothelioma - Is Cancer Hibernating in You?

Imagine a disease that lays eggs inside your lungs. These eggs do not produce discomfort or coughing, they don't cause outbreaks or rashes or anything of the sort. In fact these eggs don't do anything except sit in your lungs and germinate for 30 to 40 years. After this time you begin to have a slight cough, a fever, maybe some cold sweats. You write it off as the flu and continue as usual until it goes away. 3 weeks later the flu is back but this time you're coughing up blood. You visit your doctor and hope he can prescribe something to kick this crazy flu. Your doctor runs a few tests and sends you home. A week later your brought into his office and he lays the devastating news on you...you have Mesothelioma a cancer of the lungs.

This is the reality for roughly 2000 men and women residing here in the United States every year. These are people who often time have lead healthy lives. In the article, "Mesothelioma Victims - Survival Stories" Kathleen writes:

"At 42, I never thought that I would be facing a terminal illness, especially one relating to the lungs. I've never smoked and have lead a relatively healthy life. I have two beautiful daughters who will be heading to college soon - and I may not be alive to see their graduation."

The primary cause of mesothelioma cancer is linked to exposure to asbestos fibers which are breathed into the lungs or swallowed. Asbestos is a material that was used heavily for many years in hundreds of products. Asbestos was primarily used due to the fact that it is strong, resists fire and corrosion, and has very effective properties for insulation.

In modern day, asbestos has many uses such as thermal pipe and boiler insulation, floor coverings, ceiling tiles, spray-applied fire proofing and sound proofing, roofing materials and "transite" pipe and sheeting. Though major public use was discontinued in the late 70s, asbestos continues to be a material used in countries outside of the U.S., and due to the fact that we trade for many of these countries goods it is necessary that we educate ourselves as to the materials used in production of the products and items we use daily.

Many more cases of mesothelioma, due to asbestos exposure, are beginning to surface today. First, because our understanding and ability to recognize the disease has increased by leaps and bounds over the years, and second, because this particular cancer lays dormant within the carriers system for 30 to 40 years. With the widespread use of asbestos during the 20th century we are starting to see the consequences of exposure to this toxic material.

Due to the fact that asbestos was in heavy concentration in the industrial and building trades during the mid 1900s, most carriers of mesothelioma cancer are men who where working around asbestos during that time. However, mesothelioma has been reported not only in cases of direct exposure, but also indirect, such as the families of these men, as they often returned home with asbestos fibers on their clothing. Even in today's day and age where asbestos has been all but removed from our lives, it is still possible to be diagnosed with mesothelioma as cases of this cancer have been diagnosed without the presence of asbestos exposure.

It is also important to note that smokers who have been exposed to asbestos carry a far greater risk of mesothelioma. Some figures suggest as much as 3 times the percentage of a non-smoker with the same level of exposure. If you feel that you have been exposed to asbestos set an appointment with your physician to go over your chances of mesothelioma developing. The best thing a mesothelioma patient can do is to detect the presence of this disease early on, as it will increase your chances considerably.

To find out the symptoms of mesothelioma and get more information about this deadly form of respiratory cancer visit: Mesothelioma Cancer

Mike Andrews is a research specialist who writes informative and news worthy articles focused on providing the public with unbiased views and quality information. These articles stand to improve public relations and branding for the businesses they are associated with.

The Asbestos Debate

Asbestos. Most often asbestos is equated or associated with dire images. As a society there seems to be an overall distaste for any regard where asbestos is concerned. If you or a loved one has suffered from the cancerous side effects of asbestos and asbestos related materials you know that it is indeed a very horrible experience. As with anything there are two sides to the total story. If you go back far enough to the time when this unique material first surfaced you would realize the tremendous benefits it offered. These benefits were far reaching. And in this other-sided-view of asbestos perhaps you would have a better appreciation for the sacrifices made and challenges met where asbestos was concerned. Obviously if you have known an individual stricken with mesothelioma you understand the sacrifices individuals made in the workplace. Inadequate ventilation and mishandling of asbestos is the number one reason lung disease attributed to asbestos is so prominent. Indeed it is the workplace that is as much to blame than the asbestos itself. Stricter codes and safety regulations would have prevented many unnecessary deaths and illness over the course of years. Assuming responsible interaction with any material used for such purposes as asbestos is used would be a reasonable focal point for manufacturers to begin manufacturing. Education and awareness as well as understanding the use of materials that have a potential public danger should always be priority. Banning such materials in the long run resolves nothing. Asbestos and similar materials have so many varied and important uses. No one can argue that fireproofing, electrical insulation and brake linings are things we as a society need. Some will argue there are other methods to achieve these amenities.There will always be an argument for either side of asbestos. Those who know the damage it can cause will argue that the benefits aren't worth the risks. Others will argue that the legacy of fear was based on ignorance. And still yet there are some who believe that the current fears and hatred toward asbestos is fueled by marketing opportunities and political issues. Researching every angle of the asbestos debate will produce questions. Fortunately answers will slowly appear also. Often unanimous negative feelings toward something can be attributed to a “propaganda-type” approach to advertising and media. Understandably establishing an opinion can be difficult in this type of situation, but not entirely impossible.
Jeff Lakie is the founder of mesothelioma Resources a website providing information on mesothelioma

What should you do if diagnosed with asbestos-related disease?

Asbestos is a toxic chemical substance that has been used directly or indirectly in hundreds of products across the globe. It is incorrect and inappropriate for human beings to have excessive exposure to asbestos. This might result inmalignant mesothelioma -- a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart -- and other diseases.It is amazing to find that, asbestos has still not been entirely banned in the United States, and Americans continue to risk exposure to this dangerous fiber.If you feel that you have been exhibiting symptoms of mesothelioma (like shortness of breath, pain in the chest or back region, swelling in the abdomen, difficulty swallowing, cough, fever, sweating, fatigue, and weight loss.), it isimportant for you to consult your doctorimmediately. There are various methods that are available for treating the victims of mesothelioma. They are either direct methods or alternative methods. Some of the direct methods are Surgery-both Aggressive and Pallative, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy etc. Immunoagumentive Therapy (IAT), Gene Therapy, IntraoperativePhotodynamic Therapy (IPT) etc. are some of the commonly practiced alternative methods.Also one can take the help of Support Groups, which are available to help sufferers deal with the challenges that they are facing. A recent publication says that over 20% of Americans have participated in some type of self-help group.There are mainly two types of support groups that are available namely- online support groups and community centred support groups.If you have already been diagnosed with mesothelioma it is important for you to have a positive frame of mind and keep yourself well informed about the latest medical developmentsthat has taken place pertaining to this field. Also as a victim of the Asbestos industry you can have certain legal and social claims. The following propositions can be considered if you are a victim of Mesothelioma caused due to negligent asbestos exposure.1. Legal Aid and Financial CompensationPeople who contract the disease must be absolutely sure that the cause for the same was asbestos exposure and then take steps to get the right legal counsel. Once the legal counsel has been retained the law will ensure that he or shegets the compensation for employers negligence if any.2. Claim from the Asbestos IndustryMesothelioma victims have the option to claim large monetary compensation from the asbestos industry. These claims can go into the millions of dollars depending on the rights and cause of the claims. A Law firm that specializes inmesothelioma cases ensures that the families of victims gets ample compensation. 3. Claim Social Security DisabilityVictims can claim social security disability after getting advice from an attorney that specializes in these cases. 4. Disability InsuranceYou are legally entailed to claim disability insurance if you have disability insurance either privately procured, within your life insurance policy or through your employer.5.Worker's CompensationIt is one of the core responsibilities of an employer to take care of its employees. Thus, even while the victim takes legal action against the asbestos industry he or she can simultaneously claim workers compensation for being disabled' during work. A lawyer who has experience in the asbestos industry should handle this sort of claim.6. Health InsuranceA victim of mesothelioma can incur huge medical bills due to the expensive nature of treatment that's required for the treatment of this disease. If a victim is admitted to the hospital he or she should talk to the Discharge Planner or other personnel who can help with hospice and hospitalcoverage. Laws cover medial treatments and action can be taken health insurance company if they fail to provide proper coverage. Again it is imperative to ensure that the victim employs a proper legal representative.Did you know mesothelioma clinical symptomsare hard to detect? Find out why by visiting www.mesothelioma-a.com

Matt West serves as the marketing director for A Touch of Home Inc. based in Woodward, OK.

What are some coping strategies found useful by mesothelioma victims?

Mesothelioma is such a disease that affects not only theperson diagnosed with the disease, but his or her lovedones, too. The intention to write this article is to offersome resource for patients and their families who are livingwith this disease. Coping with mesothelioma, unlike othertypes of cancer, can be significantly difficult. There arefew support groups specifically available for mesothelioma.These are quite often informal groups of people who residein the same area or who occasionally meet each other indoctors' chambers or hospital waiting rooms. There arelarger and more organized support groups for cancersufferers in general but not for mesothelioma sufferers inspecific. Let's see how this support groups operates. Support GroupsThe main job of the support groups is to help people, dealwith the challenges that they are facing. It is known thatover 20% of Americans have participated in some type ofself-help group. There are mainly two types of supportgroups that are available. They are online support groupsand community centred support groups. Nowadays in an era ofinternet the number of online support groups is graduallyincreasing. It is possible that a support group exists inyour community or on-line that can help to provide you therequired support.Support groups may provide several benefits: "A social platform for getting connected with others whoare facing similar situations."A platform to know how others have coped with challengessimilar to the ones you are facing presently. "A safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where one can sharefeelings."The reassurance that you are not alone, there are other'stoo who have either suffered in the past or is undergoingthe same presently."A platform where you can reliably share information. "A source of reliable Support from others who understandfrom personal experience what you are going through Incidentally there are different types of support groupsthat are available. This includes groups with strong focuson a particular disease such as mesothelioma, groups ofcaregivers, and family-centered groups.Some of the Characteristics of a successful group are asfollows: "A mix of participants from various age groups."Honesty of purpose"A caring atmosphere "A sense of trust should prevail among members "A good facilitator "Members should abide by the group rules, includingconfidentiality.Apart from joining support groups, a patient should beencouraged by his family members to remain relaxed and tryto focus on the bright side of the life. A patient shouldnot feel depressed and emotionally drained. The familymembers or the caregivers should create a healingenvironment and encourage the patient to think positive.There are lots of inspirational books that tell how peopleare fighting mesothelioma and other life-threateningdiseases. Meditation is another way to keep your minddistracted from morbid thoughts and tension. Did you know mesothelioma clinical symptoms are hard to detect? Find out why by visiting http://www.mesothelioma-a.com/
as well as Medranks.com
Matt West serves as marketing director for A Touch of Home Inc.

Finding the right mesothelioma attorney?

In order to get compensation for mesothelioma, filing alawsuit is quite imperative. However the process is quitelong drawn and tedious. The most important step pertainingto the same is selecting the correct mesothelioma attorneyor law firm. It is important to find a good, decent andexperienced mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible afterone has been diagnosed with the disease. In most placesthere is a set time limit within which one can file alawsuit, and it is very important that the victim party doesnot miss that deadline. Otherwise it may land you up as anineligible claimant. So, the earlier you get to amesothelioma lawyer, the better are your chances of success.Apart from that the firm should be trustworthy one and thevictim party should build up an excellent relationship cumrapport with the same. If one is considering about filing amesothelioma lawsuit, then the victim party should meet upwith several law firms before making the final decision.There are a large number of law firms who are specialized infiling mesothelioma lawsuits.In order to choose the correct law firm for filing yourlawsuit, the following steps can be followed:o Start the Search: You can look for a qualifiedmesothelioma attorney in various bar associations,Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory that is found in mostpublic libraries, Yellow Pages, and of course the Internet.Law firms normally have their own sites. o Narrow down the Field: After compiling a list of somemesothelioma law firms in your area, try to make establishcontact with them either by mail, email or telephone forfurther information. It is important to provide the lawfirms with details of your legal issue and find out if theycan handle your situation.Also enquire about their fees for an initial consultationand an estimate of the total costs involved in handling amesotheliomalawsuit. It is recommended that the victim party makeschedule appointments with two or three different law firms beforecoming to the final decision. o Meet the Prospective Attorneys: During the initialconsultation, it is important that you and your lawyer getto know each other. There has to be a free flow of exchangewords between both of you. After carefully reviewing yourcase, the lawyer must be in a position to inform you of yourrights and suggest alternative courses of action, if any.Moreover, it is during this initial consultation period thata mesothelioma attorney can explain what he or she can dofor you and how much will be the cost factor. Also it isimportant for you to know about the attorney's experience inhandling previous mesothelioma lawsuits. If you are totallysatisfied with the details, you may request a written feeagreement before proceeding and a list of references thatyou may contact. Making your Decision: After each initial consultation, it isimportant to consider the following questions about themesothelioma attorney you just met: o Did I got a firm understanding of my alternative coursesof action from the attorney?o Was the attorney knowledgeable about asbestos law? o Was I given enough time and did the person listened to mecarefully?o Did the attorney seem trustworthy?o Am I understanding the range of possible results, whichmight spill out during each course of action?Fees: It is important to consider this aspect with duediligence. To lower costs, you can ask your asbestos lawyerto employ a junior lawyer to perform a certain part of theentire process. You can also do some tasks by yourself tosave time and money (Provided your attorney allows you to dothe same). An asbestos lawyer may charge a flat fee for aspecific task or offer other methods of payment. Also you can go for contingent fee arrangement process. Acontingent fee arrangement is that your lawyer gets apercentage of the compensation money you receive asresolution of your asbestos lawsuit. If you do not receivecompensation for the lawsuit then your lawyer collects nofees. A contingency fee is a good option for those peoplewho cannot do away with hourly legal fees.Also you may incur charges on other fronts like; court fees,copying, hiring expert witnesses etc. Mesothelioma lawsuit records: Keep copies of all the documents that you hand over to yourlawyer relating to your lawsuit. Did you know mesothelioma clinical symptoms are hard to detect? Find out why by visiting www.mesothelioma-a.com
Matt West serves as the marketing director for A Touch of Home Inc

Mesothelioma - and the Asbestos debate

Asbestos. Most often asbestos is equated or associated with dire images. As a society there seems to be an overall distaste for any regard where asbestos is concerned. If you or a loved one has suffered from the cancerous side effects of asbestos and asbestos related materials you know that it is indeed a very horrible experience. As with anything there are two sides to the total story. If you go back far enough to the time when this unique material first surfaced you would realize the tremendous benefits it offered. These benefits were far reaching. And in this other-sided-view of asbestos perhaps you would have a better appreciation for the sacrifices made and challenges met where asbestos was concerned. Obviously if you have known an individual stricken with mesothelioma you understand the sacrifices individuals made in the workplace. Inadequate ventilation and mishandling of asbestos is the number one reason lung disease attributed to asbestos is so prominent. Indeed it is the workplace that is as much to blame than the asbestos itself. Stricter codes and safety regulations would have prevented many unnecessary deaths and illness over the course of years. Assuming responsible interaction with any material used for such purposes as asbestos is used would be a reasonable focal point for manufacturers to begin manufacturing. Education and awareness as well as understanding the use of materials that have a potential public danger should always be priority. Banning such materials in the long run resolves nothing. Asbestos and similar materials have so many varied and important uses. No one can argue that fireproofing, electrical insulation and brake linings are things we as a society need. Some will argue there are other methods to achieve these amenities.There will always be an argument for either side of asbestos. Those who know the damage it can cause will argue that the benefits aren't worth the risks. Others will argue that the legacy of fear was based on ignorance. And still yet there are some who believe that the current fears and hatred toward asbestos is fueled by marketing opportunities and political issues. Researching every angle of the asbestos debate will produce questions. Fortunately answers will slowly appear also. Often unanimous negative feelings toward something can be attributed to a “propaganda-type” approach to advertising and media. Understandably establishing an opinion can be difficult in this type of situation, but not entirely impossible.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of mesothelioma Information a website providing information on mesothelioma

Living In Fear Of Mesothelioma

Living In Fear Of Mesothelioma

First of all, you may be wondering what mesothelioma is, and why I should be scared of it ?.....

Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is the medical name for cancer of the lung, and is usually caused by exposure to asbestos. Symptoms my not appear for up to 50 years or so after exposure to asbestos, and people who haven't had any contact with asbestos for many years, are now showing signs of having this deadly disease. The symptoms are usually shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pains and feeling very tired.

Why should I be scared of it ?
As a small child, I used to live near a factory which used asbestos to make fire-proof products and other insulating materials for the building industry. I believe that asbestos was also used in the manufacture of break linings. I can remember seeing the asbestos dust that spewed out of the factory covering the surrounding area (including part of our school playground) with this deadly snow like powder.
Of course, as we were just kids at that time, we had absolutely no idea just how deadly this dust was. We even played in it completely unaware of its dangers. The Horror Came Later.It wasn't until years later after the factory had been closed down, that we began to see the full horrors of this white snow looking powder, we had played with as children. By this time I was much older, and the dangers of asbestos had been given massive coverage by the media, so I was now aware of what could happen to myself and hundreds of other people who lived in the same area as this factory in years to come.TV Documentary.
This factory received national television coverage, and on one program they interviewed families who had suffered due to the problem of asbestos. I was shocked to see that I knew some of the people who had lost family members due to developing mesothelioma, in fact I actually went to school with some of the people who took part in the program. The program showed old photographs of the area around the factory (including my old school) covered in powder, and it really did look like it had been snowing.
When you see all of this on television it really does make you just a little bit worried, especially when you have been in contact with asbestos like I have.Treatments.If mesothelioma is diagnosed early enough, a cure is possible with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, in the case of a more advanced illness a cure is not possible, but with the right treatments the illness can be slowed down dramatically and medication can be used to ease any pain.X-Rays.As a precaution I did have x-rays a few years ago just to put my mind at rest, and thankfully they we all clear.
The doctor recommended that I should have x-rays on a very regular basis just to be on the safe side. So, at the moment everything is ok, but I will always be just a little bit worried of what might happen in the future.Thank you for reading my article - Author John Moore. For more help and information, please use my link http://www.online-mesothelioma-guide.com