Mesothelioma: Preventive Measures

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. It attacks the lining of the lungs, heart or abdominal cavity. Before the harmful effects of asbestos was known, and even for several years after, it was commonly used in everyday products we come in contact with, specifically in building materials such as walls, ceilings, brick and was also used in the manufacturing of automotive parts such as brakes and clutches.

One of the most unique characteristics of mesothelioma is that it usually doesn’t affect a person until decades after exposure to asbestos. People, who work in the asbestos industry or in an environment where asbestos was used in the manufacturing of equipment, are at a much higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

There are precautions that can be taken in the home to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure such as; avoid drilling, sanding, vacuuming or scraping of surfaces that may contain asbestos. Once the asbestos fibers are airborne, it greatly increases the chance that these fibers can be inhaled, thus increasing the chance of developing the deadly cancer.

Do not try to remove any asbestos-containing material without first seeking the advice of a trained professional.

Tags: Mesothelioma