Publishers
Science & Tech • Business • Investing & Finance
What Are the Risk Factors for Mesothelioma?
June 24, 2024
post photo preview

Mesothelioma, while statistically quite rare, has become a serious problem for thousands of Americans over the past several years. And, unfortunately, it will impact hundreds of thousands of additional people over the next decade-plus. Thus, it’s important for us to take a step back and understand what the risk factors are for mesothelioma.

What is Mesothelioma?

Before digging too deeply into the risk factors, let’s explore the first question most people have: What exactly is mesothelioma?

The simplest explanation is that it’s a rare type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. These microscopic asbestos fibers can be unintentionally (and unknowingly) inhaled into the lungs, causing irritation to tissues, as well as cell mutation. It’s this cell mutation that can cause mesothelioma tumors to form in the lining of bodily organs.

“There are technically four types of mesothelioma,” MesotheliomaGuide.com mentions. “However, two are more commonly diagnosed: pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. The other two – pericardial mesothelioma and testicular mesothelioma – are rare occurrences.”

Unfortunately, it can often take several decades for mesothelioma to be diagnosed, at which point treating it becomes a huge challenge.

Asbestos Exposure: The Only True Risk Factor

In this article, we’re going to discuss the risk factors for asbestos. However, let’s be clear from the start: There’s ultimately only one risk factor: exposure to asbestos. 

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction, automotive, military, and other industries for their resistance to heat, electricity, and chemical damage. When asbestos materials are disturbed, they release fine fibers into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested, lodging in the linings of the lungs or abdomen and eventually causing mesothelioma.

All of the other factors we’re going to discuss are secondary to asbestos exposure. In other words, these factors increase the likelihood that you’re exposed to this dangerous material or, in some cases, increase the likelihood that you’ll be impacted if exposed. 

With that being said, here are some risk factors:

  1. Occupational Exposure

Certain professions are at a higher risk due to their direct contact with asbestos-containing materials. Workers in construction, plumbing, shipbuilding, and manufacturing of asbestos-containing products are among those most at risk. Firefighters, electricians, and demolition workers also face significant exposure due to the nature of their work involving older buildings that contain asbestos materials.

  1. Environmental Exposure

Asbestos is not only a danger in the workplace. Natural deposits of asbestos can also pose a risk to nearby communities through environmental exposure. In some regions, asbestos can be present in rocks and soil, naturally releasing fibers into the air that can be inhaled by the local population. Living close to asbestos mines or contaminated sites can significantly increase the risk of developing mesothelial.

  1. Secondary Exposure

Family members of people who work with asbestos can also be at risk through secondary exposure. This occurs when workers bring home asbestos fibers on their clothing, hair, and tools. Over time, household exposure to these fibers can cause mesothelioma in family members, even if they were not directly involved with asbestos themselves.

  1. Genetic Factors

While asbestos exposure is by far the leading cause of mesothelioma, genetic factors may also play a role in an individual's susceptibility. Research suggests that some people might be genetically more predisposed to develop mesothelioma upon exposure to asbestos. Scientists are still investigating the exact nature of this genetic link.

  1. Smoking

Although smoking alone is not a risk factor for mesothelioma, it can exacerbate the effects of asbestos exposure. Smoking in conjunction with asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer among asbestos-exposed workers. However, it's important to note that mesothelioma and lung cancer are distinct diseases, each with different mechanisms and affected areas of the body.

  1. Age and Gender

Mesothelioma typically takes a long time to develop, often appearing 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure. Therefore, it is more commonly diagnosed in older individuals, usually between the ages of 60 and 80. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than women, primarily due to the higher likelihood of men working in at-risk occupations.

Prevention and Early Detection

Given the long latency period of mesothelioma and its aggressive nature, prevention is crucial. Avoiding exposure to asbestos is the most effective way to prevent mesothelioma. For those at risk, regular health screenings and monitoring for symptoms are vital for early detection. 

If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos or are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or abdominal swelling, consult your doctor promptly for an evaluation.

community logo
Join the Publishers Community
To read more articles like this, sign up and join my community today
0
What else you may like…
Posts
Articles
Therapist Abuse: Know Your Rights and Why You Need a Lawyer on Your Side

Therapists play a crucial role in supporting mental health and emotional well-being. When working with a therapist, patients entrust them with their most personal experiences and vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, not all therapeutic relationships are safe or ethical. Therapist abuse can cause serious harm, and victims need to understand their rights and legal options. This article will explore what therapist abuse entails, the signs to watch for, and why having a lawyer can make all the difference in seeking justice and protection.
What Is Therapist Abuse?
Therapist abuse refers to any unethical or harmful behavior by a mental health professional toward a patient. Abuse can take many forms, including emotional, physical, sexual, or financial exploitation. Because of the inherent power imbalance in a therapist-patient relationship, abuse can be particularly damaging and complex.
Common Types of Therapist Abuse
Sexual misconduct: This includes any unwanted sexual advances, touching, or inappropriate comments made by a therapist.

Emotional manipulation: Therapists may ...

post photo preview

Video has quickly become one of the most powerful content medium in a business’s marketing toolkit. Whether you’re launching a new product, hosting a live event, or creating brand content, video helps you connect with your audience in ways no other medium can. But there’s a catch: to make great video, you need a great videographer.

And here’s where many new clients go wrong.

Hiring a videographer sounds simple—ask around, check a portfolio, sign a contract, right? Not quite. There are several critical decisions and assumptions that can turn what should be an amazing project into a frustrating (and expensive) disappointment.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 mistakes clients make when hiring a videographer—and how you can avoid them to ensure a smooth, successful, and impactful production.

Mistake #1: Not Defining the Project Goals Clearly

The Problem:
A surprising number of clients approach videographers with vague objectives like “We need a cool video” or “Just make something that looks good.” While the creative freedom might sound appealing, it often leads to misaligned expectations and ...

post photo preview
Why Choose a Custom Home Builder For Your Dream Home

Lake Norman, North Carolina's residence has become a desirable choice among several families. The beauty of the landscape, favorable climate, and active life have characterized the region. Natives have access to boating, fishing, and outdoor activities throughout the year. Lake Norman has strong sense of community and access to good schools, making it a good place for retirees and young families. Living in SC reports that it is one of the best locations that someone should consider as their retirement because the area has low crime rates and thriving employment opportunities.

 

Choosing between a pre-built home or construct a custom home is a challenge many people encounter when seeking a home in an attractive region. A custom home has complete customization, ensuring the layout, design, and features are exactly what you need. You are not pressured to fit into the vision of another person's home. Instead, the space is made to suit your lifestyle and your family's specific needs. Design elements such as room size, energy-saving qualities, and kitchen layout can all be customized initially. This guarantees a more satisfactory experience in the long run and less expensive future renovations.

 

A custom house offers you the chance to select the ideal tract. The location is important in Lake Norman, where natural views and open space are valued. You can determine the orientation, outdoor features, and how the home relates to the environment. Instead of prefabricated residences, all the details, including the yard size and privacy requirements, can be considered. It makes your home more personal and functional and adapted to your long-term lifestyle and family requirements.

 

Choosing the appropriate builder is another critical aspect of making your dream home. The National Association of Home Builders suggests you use factors such as experience, reputation, communication, and past customer reviews to make an informed decision. A contractor must get your vision and be brutally honest about time frames, prices, and expectations. By listening to you and leaving you engaged, the builder can make the process less stressful and rather a rewarding experience, making sure that the result matches your needs and requirements.

 

Keystone Building Group is one of the thoughtful decisions regarding construction in Lake Norman area. They have many years of experience constructing custom homes to portray the tastes and needs of their clients. Their work is logical and transparent, focused both on design and budget. Keystone also employs local artisans and good materials. Their custom homes are not only of superior building design; they are of longevity and better impressions. The clients are informed and kept involved throughout the planning and final walk-through.

 

Lake Norman provides the ideal setting for homeowners seeking comfort, beauty, and community. A custom home in the area lets you control the design, layout, and location. This creates a home that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Keystone Building Group uses precision and care in their process. The result is a well-designed home that reflects your needs and values for years to come. Selecting custom construction is a viable investment in quality, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.

 

Read full Article
post photo preview
5 Reasons to Include a Zipper as a Clothing Accessory

The common zipper that we all know today became part of mainstream fashion in 1913. Initially used to secure boots and tobacco pouches, zippers eventually became popular in children's clothing because they made getting dressed much more convenient. Of course, people of all ages today love zippers on clothing because they are much easier to manage than buttons and laces. Zippers don't just keep clothing secure on our bodies. They also improve the fit and look of clothing.

 

Five Reasons to Include a Zipper as a Clothing Accessory

 

The zipper is loved by both clothing designers and modern shoppers. While not every piece of clothing needs a zipper, this hardware should be considered essential on any item that needs to be secured against the body. Here's a look at the most compelling reasons to add zippers to clothing designs.

 

1. Zippers Are Universal

 

In an era when society understands the importance of accessibility, zippers rule. Elderly people, people suffering from post-stroke limitations, and others with health issues can use zippers with ease compared to more complex notches, laces, and buttons. A zipper is a great way to make a clothing item universally accessible! Of course, zippers are also great for kids who haven't yet mastered the art of buttoning and unbuttoning.

 

2. Zippers Can Be Repaired

 

Zippers can easily be repaired or replaced if they stop working. This creates an eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for people who don't want to throw clothing and outerwear away just because one small thing is broken. Additionally, it's so much easier to replace a zipper compared to trying to match a single missing or broken button to other buttons.

 

3. Zippers Are Stylish

 

A well-placed zipper can actually enhance the look of a piece of clothing. Zippers create linear interest and symmetry. Additionally, a custom zipper color can make a look pop!

 

4. Zippers Add Structural Support

 

A zipper can actually enhance the fit of a dress, shirt, or jacket. By providing structural support, a zipper helps a garment to stay in place against the body. Zippers are especially useful for tight-fitting dresses because they allow a person to slip in and out of the dress comfortably without stretching or ripping it.

 

5. Zippers Are Reliable

 

Ties and buttons can easily become undone. In addition to being irritating, this can actually be dangerous because boot laces or a draping jacket can be hazardous when a person is hiking, climbing, or working with machinery. A zipper offers a reliable way to secure shoes and clothing to the body.

 

What Are Some Different Types of Zippers That Can Be Used on Clothing?

 

Nearly everyone can identify a zipper in a quick glance. A typical zipper design features two strips of fabric tape with a row of metal or plastic interlocking teeth. However, most people outside of the fashion industry haven't thought very deeply about the different types of zippers. Here's a look at the different zippers that can be used on clothing:

 


  • Coil Zippers: These are lightweight, flexible zippers that are typically made from coiled nylon. They are ideal for skirts, dresses, and light jackets.


  • Metal Zippers: This heavy-duty design made from nickel, brass, or aluminum has the extra durability needed for denim and leather.


  • Plastic Zippers: Molded with lightweight teeth, these "ouch-free" zippers are perfect for children's clothing.


  • Open Zippers: An open-ended zipper lacks the "stopping" mechanism found on most zippers to allow a garment to be fully separated when opened.


Double Zippers: Also known as two-way zippers, these zippers have sliders at both ends that allow them to be opened from either direction. They are most commonly used on long coats.

Read full Article
post photo preview
Why Hiring the Best DUI Attorney Can Help Clean Your Record

It’s scary to be arrested for a DUI. A charge of this kind ...can throw your job, your insurance, and even your future plans into uncertainty. But here’s the good news. Hiring the right DUI attorney can be a game changer for your case and your criminal record.

 

Understanding the Law Is Complicated

 

DUI laws are not simple. The rules are different for every state, and those rules evolve. In addition, there are also legal steps to wiping — or expunging — your record. So, having a skilled DUI lawyer is critical.

 

These professionals have insider knowledge of the legal system, and they are best equipped to guide you through it. From the time that you are arrested, a good lawyer can put you in the know about your rights and what you should do.

 

Protect Your Future

 

A DUI can taint your record for a long time. It can harm your chances of getting a job, being accepted into college, or renting an apartment. It can also lead to higher car insurance rates. But an experienced attorney could help lessen the charges against you or have them dismissed. They might also get you admitted into programs that lead to expungement so that your record can be wiped clean.

 

Keeping a clean record means less trouble in the future. That’s why spending money on the right lawyer now can save you from losing out on good opportunities later.

 

Faster and Better Results

 

DUI lawyers not only know the law; they know how to use the law to your benefit. They can study the evidence in your case and look for mistakes. Some things they'll look for include whether the officer administered the breathalyzer test correctly or properly followed police procedure. If not, your lawyer will be able to attack that evidence at trial.

 

Lawyers also know how to speak to judges and prosecutors to get better deals like lighter sentences or admission into treatment programs in lieu of jail time. This can result in quicker settlements, less stress and better long-term outcomes for you.

 

Worry Less, Focus On Your Life

 

The idea of trying to manage a DUI case by yourself is daunting. The court dates, paperwork, and legal jargon can be overwhelming. When you get a professional involved, you don’t have to suffer the experience alone. A quality DUI lawyer does the heavy lifting for you by ensuring deadlines are met and your rights are preserved. They can also explain all that legalese.

 

Because you have a lawyer going to bat for you, you can focus on what truly matters. You can get your life back in order and start rebuilding.

 

A DUI charge doesn’t have to shape the rest of your life. The right lawyer can help you navigate your way through the legal system, assist you in clearing your record, and protect your future. If you have been charged with a DUI, hop on the phone now. Retaining an experienced DUI lawyer may be the best decision you make toward getting a clean slate.

 

Read full Article
Available on mobile and TV devices
google store google store app store app store
google store google store app tv store app tv store amazon store amazon store roku store roku store
Powered by Locals