Asbestos Lung Cancer

Asbestos lung cancer is one of the most painful and devastating forms of cancer. Asbestos contains several minerals that cause cells in the lungs to reproduce and mutate. It is these abnormal cells which will lead to the cancer. Because asbestos is employed as insulation and tile for buildings, the people who work there will be at greater risk.

What is Asbestos?

It is a fibrous mineral used in various applications. Apart from tile and insulation, the material is also used on shingles, plasters, concrete pipes and sprayed on fire proofing. The material is also used for building ships, manufacturing various materials, mining and milling.

People who are at the Greatest Risk

The longer you are exposed to asbestos, the greater the risks of getting cancer. Even if you don’t get cancer directly from asbestos, your immune system weakens so you become more susceptible to lung cancer.

Studies show that prolonged exposure increases cancer risk by five times. Mesothelioma is one of the most common types of cancer linked to asbestos exposure.

Increased Danger for Smokers

Smokers exposed to asbestos are in even greater danger. A study conducted by Princeton University shows that smokers with asbestos exposure are 90 times more susceptible to getting cancer.

How Asbestos Enters the Body

The material goes into the body via the respiratory system. When materials containing asbestos leaks, the material travels into the air and goes in the body. These tiny particles attach themselves on the lungs, inflicting damage on the cells.

Symptoms

Small cell carcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer linked to asbestos exposure. It commences in the lungs and spreads rapidly. The most common symptoms are hoarseness, chest pain, fatigue, coughing up blood, dizziness and shortness of breath.

There is also swelling in the face and neck. Pain is repeatedly experienced around the shoulders and / or back. The pain intensifies when you take deep breaths. Other indicators are repeating cases of pneumonia or bronchitis. Sudden weight loss is another common sign.

During the advanced stage, the cancer will spread and may affect the spine, brain and liver. If the cancer gets to the brain, it will cause seizures or headaches. Jaundice may result if the cancer spreads to liver.

Asbestos Lung Cancer Treatment

The treatment that will be administered will depend on the severity of the cancer. The most common methods used are radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery.

Radiotherapy involves using energy particles on the tumor in an attempt to destroy it. Surgical procedures may be performed, but it will depend on how advanced the cancer is already.

Chemotherapy is used to reduce or destroy the tumor. These treatments may be standalone or used together. New forms of cancer treatment are being developed, most notably photodynamic therapy. This method uses laser light to destroy the tumor.

Due to the dangers posed by asbestos lung cancer, regulations have been implemented to reduce exposure of individuals to the substance. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has decreed that all individuals who have to work with asbestos must wear the appropriate safety gear.

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