There is more than one type of mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure has the potential to cause a variety of medical problems, including mesothelioma.

While anyone can come in contact with asbestos, this is more likely among these types of workers:

• Car part manufacturers
• Insulation installers
• Pipe fitters
• Shingle manufacturers
• Roofers
• Tile installers
• Construction workers
• Wallboard installers

It’s important to understand the many types of mesothelioma, as this helps to identify the problem as quickly as possible. When that happens, you put yourself in position to receive treatment.

• Mesothelioma in the lungs: Known as pleural mesothelioma, it’s the most common type of the disease. Every year, approximately 2,500 new cases come to light in the United States. Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of pleural mesothelioma.
• Mesothelioma in the abdomen: Known as peritoneal mesothelioma, it accounts for approximately 20 percent of all new cases. This form of the disease attacks the abdominal cavity.
• Mesothelioma in the heart: Known as pericardial mesothelioma, it’s extremely uncommon and accounts for only one percent of new cases. This form of mesothelioma affects the sac of tissue around the heart.
• Mesothelioma in the testicles: Just as rare as mesothelioma in the heart, this form of the disease is uncommon.

Is it treatable?

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, there are treatment strategies that can slow down the progression of the disease.

To start, your medical team will perform a variety of tests, such as a CT scan, to understand the extent of your disease.

From there, your doctor will stage the mesothelioma based on if or how far it has spread.

If mesothelioma is caught in the early stages, it’s possible to remove the disease entirely. However, in later stages, treatment typically focuses on controlling symptoms and stopping its progression.

From surgery to chemotherapy to radiation, there are a variety of treatment strategies to discuss with your doctor.

As you fight the disease, turn your attention to any exposure you may have had to asbestos. Depending on what you find, you may be able to take action, such as against a former or current employer.

While your health always comes first, if your mesothelioma was caused by another party’s negligence you’ll want to protect your legal rights.