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Mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer that has been linked to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is so named because it is the mesothelium, the layer inside the body that protects major organs such as the lungs, heart and stomach, that becomes infected with cancer.

People who are at an increased risk for developing this condition are those who worked with asbestos prior to the 1980's. At that time, there were very few, if any, regulations regarding health and safety measures pertaining to working with asbestos. Another route of exposure includes living in a home built prior to that same era.

Over the past two decades, the number of reported cases of mesothelioma has risen, however, it remains a very rare type of cancer. Diagnosis of the disease can be difficult, since its symptoms are similar to other conditions. Furthermore, it may take several years after the initial exposure to asbestos for the symptoms of the disease to manifest itself. Symptoms include:

-shortness of breath
-chest pain
-anemia
-abnormalities in blood clotting
-weight loss
-abdominal pain and swelling (in the case of damage to the lining of the gut)

As with many forms of cancer, treatment options include radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. Determining the best course for an individual's particular presentation of mesothelioma depends heavily on the extent of the disease, which organs are affected, and other medical considerations. New treatments for the condition are in the process of being evaluated by the National Cancer Institute.

Learn more about this author, Lauren Beyenhof.
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