Wednesday, September 23, 2009

What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?

Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated in to narrow threads & woven. Asbestos has been widely used in lots of industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, & insulation. If little asbestos particles float in the air, during the manufacturing technique, they may be inhaled or swallowed, & can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), & other cancers, such as those of the larynx & kidney.

Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.

Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking & asbestos exposure significantly increases a person's risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung.

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