Related Topics Other TopicsMesothelioma - Mesothelioma Prevention
Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, particularly because it is difficult to diagnose early in its development. Therefore, prevention of the disease is of the utmost importance.
Quite simply, there is only one proven way in which one can develop malignant mesothelioma, and that is through asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a natural mineral that is still being mined in many locations throughout the world. The mineral was once used in hundreds of products, including insulation, building materials, and even clothing. Asbestos is very fibrous, and when these fibers are released they are readily inhaled and can become trapped in the lungs, causing scarring and, in some cases, various forms of asbestos cancer.
At-Home Prevention
The first step towards preventing mesothelioma is avoiding exposure to this toxic mineral. Through asbestos is no longer used in a vast majority of products, this hazardous substance has not been banned in the United States and products made today still contain asbestos, such as automotive clutch and break linings. Since asbestos was used in numerous industries for many decades, some of the older products in homes may contain asbestos, including:
- Joint compound
- Roofing tar
- Brake pads
- Fireproofing
- Pipes
- Insulation
- Countertops
- Floor tiles
- Textured wall and ceiling coatings
If these items are intact, they usually present little to no health hazards. However, if they are damaged or "friable," they should be removed from the house immediately. Removal should be done by a licensed abatement company, as this is the best way to protect you and your family from asbestos exposure.
On-the-Job Prevention
Workers in particular industries may still be at risk for exposure to asbestos. Those in the construction industry, for example, may encounter old buildings that contain asbestos. It is necessary to take great care in protecting yourself if the presence of asbestos is suspected, which includes wearing proper gear to avoid inhalation.
Monitoring Your Health
If you have already been exposed to asbestos, regularly monitoring your health is essential in order to catch the early warning signs of disease. Remember, treatment options are greater the earlier the disease is diagnosed. It is important to have regular chest x-rays and pulmonary function tests, even if you are experiencing no symptoms of disease.
In addition, if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, you may be able to reduce your chances of developing mesothelioma by not smoking. Studies show that smoking damages the lungs and can affect the risk of developing mesothelioma. Anyone who does develop an asbestos-related disease should stop smoking immediately.
Sources:
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_What_are_the_risk_factors_for_malignant _mesothelioma_29.asp?sitearea=
- http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/pubs/help.html#Info
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_Can_malignant_mesothelioma_be_ prevented_29.asp?sitearea=
- Dodson, R. and Hammar, S. Asbestos: Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, and Health Effects. Taylor & Francis: Boca Raton. 2006.
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