What is the definition of Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer whose malignant cells are found in the sac lining of the chest (the pleura) or the abdomen (the peritoneum). The majority of people with Mesothelioma have a history of jobs that exposed them to asbestos, an insulation material. (The Oncology Encyclopedia ).
The chest cavity, the abdominal cavity and the cavity that surrounds the heart are encased in a membrane or sacs made of specialized cells called mesothelial cells. It is the cells in these sacs that become cancerous from prolonged and repeated exposure to asbestos. It is thought that when the asbestos fibers are inhaled they lodge themselves in the air sacs of the lungs and eventually puncture the lining of the lung and then the lining of the sac around the lung. The byproduct of the irritation this causes to the mesothelial cells is thought to turn them cancerous. If untreated the cancer spreads to other areas of the body.
What Mesothelioma is NOT, is contagious. You can not contract the disease by contact with someone who has it. You are not born with it. You can not pass it along to your sexual partner or to your children. You can recieve information as well from your mesothelioma attorney.
Mesothelioma is a disease that is seldom found in children. It is most often found in adults age 50 to 70. More men than women contract the disease (probably because greater exposure to asbestos). And the overall number of people with this cancer is relatively small compared to other types of cancer it does seem to be on the increase.
It is a disease caused by exposure; most notably to asbestos although it may occur due to exposure to certain types of radiation and to certain chemicals. As research continues on the mechanism that causes the mesothelial cells to become cancerous, it is hoped that the research may provide answers as to how other types of exposure caused cancers are created and how they may be treated. And the more complex our world gets the more we are exposed to new toxins, chemicals and irritants that may adversely our health. Maybe the research into Mesothelioma will not only relieve the suffering of those afflicted with this disease, but it may also provide us with new tools to deal with the new exposures. Regardless if you are looking for mesothelioma attorneys san diego, doctor or articles, you will be able to ask additional questions at our forum.