According to the American Cancer Society, the best way to avoid contracting mesothelioma is to avoid contact with asbestos in homes, in public buildings, and at work.
Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma – a cancer that affects the protective lining that covers many of the internal organs of the body called the mesothelium.
The American Cancer Society says people who could be exposed to asbestos at work include miners, factory workers, insulation workers, railroad workers, ship builders, makers of gas masks, and construction workers. If there is a chance of exposure, then workers should take special measures to protect themselves.
If you live in an older home, asbestos may be in the insulation or in other materials. An expert can check your home to see if there is any danger.
Even if asbestos is in the building materials, those materials may not pose a danger if they’re in good condition. If you decide to have the asbestos removed, you should hire a qualified person to do the job and not attempt it yourself.
The American Cancer Society says symptoms of pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the chest, can include:
- Pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Cough
- Fever
- Sweating
- Tiredness
- Weight loss
- Swelling of the face and arms
- Muscle weakness
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdominal cavity, can include:
- Belly pain
- Weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fluid or swelling in the abdomen
If you or a loved one have contracted mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, contact Lopez McHugh for a free consultation.
For more information about mesothelioma, see here:
https://www.cancer.org/Cancer/MalignantMesothelioma/OverviewGuide/index
