Key Facts You Should Know About Mesothelioma Cancer

Understanding Mesothelioma: Essential Insights

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer impacting the mesothelium, the protective lining of internal organs like the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Predominantly caused by asbestos exposure, it often originates in the chest cavity, accounting for about 75% of cases. Less common types affect the pericardium, peritoneum, and testes. The disease develops due to inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers that embed in tissues, leading to inflammation and tumor formation. Other risk factors include exposure to zeolites, certain viruses like SV40, radiation, and genetic predisposition.

Recognizing Symptoms

Pleural mesothelioma: Chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, lumps under the skin, unexplained weight loss.

Peritoneal mesothelioma: Abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, weight loss, fatigue, indigestion.

Pericardial mesothelioma: Breathing difficulties, chest pain, fatigue, fever, heart issues.

Testicular mesothelioma: Fluid buildup in the scrotum, lumps on the testicles.

Stages of Mesothelioma

Stage 1: Tumors localized; no spread yet.

Stage 2: Cancer spreads to nearby organs such as the diaphragm.

Stage 3: Tumors reach adjacent tissues, organs, and lymph nodes.

Stage 4: Advanced spread to distant organs, nodes, and tissues.

Treatment and Prognosis

Stage 1: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy; survival extends beyond 21 months.

Stage 2: Similar treatments; average survival around 19 months.

Stage 3: Focused on symptom relief; approximately 16 months expectancy.

Stage 4: Palliative care aimed at comfort; about one year expected survival.

Dietary Suggestions

Omega-3 rich fish

Foods high in fiber

Herbs like turmeric, basil, mint, rosemary

Sources of Coenzyme Q10

Green and herbal teas

This article provides general information. Please consult healthcare professionals for medical advice regarding diagnosis and treatment.