Frequently Asked Mesothelioma Questions

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a disease where cells in the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without order or control. The cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and organs or spread to other areas of the body. Mesothelioma usually affects the pleura, the membrane that surrounds the lungs. This form of the disease is called pleural mesothelioma. The peritoneum can also be affected, which is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. It rarely begins in the pericardium.

Mesothelioma can be divided into three types: epithelioid, sarcomatoid and mixed/biphasic. Epithelioid mesothelioma has the best outlook and makes up 50% to 70% of all mesothelioma cases.

Decades ago, researchers connected the development of mesothelioma to crocidolite asbestos exposure in South African miners. Approximately 70% to 90% of patients who develop mesothelioma have some prior asbestos exposure commonly through work. Mesothelioma cases tend to come from those working near or in shipyards and plants that produce asbestos products.

In the United States, approximately 2,000 to 3,000 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed annually. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than women, although the gap is closing. Before regulations concerning asbestos were established, workers carried home asbestos fibers on their clothing, exposing their family members as well. In addition, those living or working near asbestos-related operations can be exposed to asbestos released into the environment. One study found that living close to these area can significantly heighten the chance of developing mesothelioma.

The risk of developing mesothelioma increases with:

• Age
• Increased duration and intensity of exposure to asbestos

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