Many countries across the world are witnessing an increase in the rate of mesothelioma cancer. This type of cancer is likely to occur in Hispanics/Latinos. African Americans and Asian Americans present low rates of cancer. The rate at which old people are developing mesothelioma is higher than the rate t which the young are developing the condition. The immune systems of young people are still strong, making their bodies better at fighting infections than the old people whose immunity system is low.
The survival rate among the elderly is also lower than that in young people. Mesothelioma has no cure, and therefore, the doctors ensure to manage the symptoms to prolong life. If an individual’s immune system is strong, the chances are high that they will survive cancer for some years. However, if a person’s immune system is low, the person is likely to survive for a few months due to the severity of the symptoms.
Causes of mesothelioma
The inhalation of asbestos causes mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos is one of the common minerals which is used in making fireproof materials. The mineral is also used in making building materials. However, most countries worldwide have banned the use of asbestos in making building materials due to the high rate of mesothelioma they used to cause. If you live in a house that has been constructed using asbestos, you risk developing this type of cancer. It is advisable to seek asbestos removal companies when you notice any exposed asbestos in your home.
Among the common industries that use asbestos are shipbuilding, chemical plants, construction companies, and firefighters. Most of the mesothelioma patients are people who used to work in such industries. If you realize that you have developed this type of cancer and used to work in these industries, it is important to seek compensation from the industry. Most of the mesothelioma claims have become a success, and the victims are highly compensated.
Symptoms of mesothelioma
- Coughing blood
- Chest pains
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Lumps in the abdomen
- Shortness of breath.
What do if you have mesothelioma
Many people do not know that they can sue the industry that exposed them to asbestos. Most industries know the danger of using asbestos as a raw material. Therefore, they should provide their employees with the necessary gear to prevent them from inhaling asbestos. Many mesothelioma claims are from people who used to work in industries that deal with asbestos.
The symptoms of mesothelioma can take up to 30 years to develop. Many people tend to confuse such symptoms with those caused by other health conditions. These people choose to consume painkillers to ease the pain instead of getting screened for mesothelioma. The earlier it is detected, the more helpful doctors can be. Given that this type of cancer has no cure, doctors can manage the symptoms to prolong life. Hence, it is important to get screened as soon as you notice the symptoms. This will allow you to start treatment early enough to reduce the pain associated with the symptoms.
