Asbestos exposure is by far the leading cause of malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer found in the sac lining the chest (the pleura) or the abdomen (the peritoneum). In 1999, 2,485 deaths were recorded with malignant mesothelioma listed as an underlying or contributing cause. Of these, 1,773 deaths were classified as unspecified. The highest malignant mesothelioma mortality rates occurred in Alaska and Maine. Men accounted for 80.3% of the deaths from malignant mesothelioma, and white U.S. residents accounted for 94.8% of these deaths. Industrial and miscellaneous chemicals had the highest proportionate mortality ratio (PMR) for malignant mesothelioma among the industries. Occupations with the PMRs were plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters; electricians; and elementary school teachers.
Asbestos and Lung Cancer
A naturally occurring mineral that contains fibers, asbestos has been identified as the most common industrial substance that induces lung cancer. When fibers of asbestos disintegrate, they release microscopic particles in the air. Since they are easily inhalable, they can settle down in the lungs, leading to cell damage and increased cancer risks. Smokers face an increased risk of developing asbestos-related lung cancer in comparison to non-smokers. To read a personal story of a Navy veteran diagnosed with lung cancer, click here.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms commonly associated with lung cancer include constant chest pain, persistent cough, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath or wheezing, repeated bronchitis or pneumonia and swelling in the face or neck.
Treatment of lung cancer
The type of treatment for lung cancer will depend on a variety of factors such as the tumor’s shape, size and location and the patient’s general health. Surgery, chemotherapy treatment, radiation therapy, immuno-therapy (medications that improve the performance of the immune system), and photodynamic therapy (use of lasers) are some common treatment options available to lung cancer patients. As is the case with other cancers, an early diagnosis is critical for the success of the treatment procedure.
Asbestos and Lung Cancer
A naturally occurring mineral that contains fibers, asbestos has been identified as the most common industrial substance that induces lung cancer. When fibers of asbestos disintegrate, they release microscopic particles in the air. Since they are easily inhalable, they can settle down in the lungs, leading to cell damage and increased cancer risks. Smokers face an increased risk of developing asbestos-related lung cancer in comparison to non-smokers. To read a personal story of a Navy veteran diagnosed with lung cancer, click here.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms commonly associated with lung cancer include constant chest pain, persistent cough, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath or wheezing, repeated bronchitis or pneumonia and swelling in the face or neck.
Treatment of lung cancer
The type of treatment for lung cancer will depend on a variety of factors such as the tumor’s shape, size and location and the patient’s general health. Surgery, chemotherapy treatment, radiation therapy, immuno-therapy (medications that improve the performance of the immune system), and photodynamic therapy (use of lasers) are some common treatment options available to lung cancer patients. As is the case with other cancers, an early diagnosis is critical for the success of the treatment procedure.
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