Our vital organs are sheathed in a single layer of compacted cuboidal cells. This layer, called mesothelium lines the serous cavities of our body. The cells of this covering become cancerous when particles of mesothelioma asbestos get deposited in it. The infection slowly retards the normal functioning of nearby organs thereby resulting in death. Statistics prove that almost ninety percent of all mesothelioma cases occur due to asbestos exposure only.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is put to extensive industrial use. Its flexible but strong fibers can be converted into thin threads. It is widely used in making cement, roof shingles, textiles, insulation etc. During the manufacturing period, thin fibers float in the air and get inhaled or swallowed and many of these particles reach the mesothelium. The fibers of this material have the capability to change the functions of macrophages and thereby create suitable conditions for mesothelioma development. Mesothelioma asbestos retards the functioning of our immune system by deactivating tumor suppressor genes and activating oncogenes, proto-oncogenes, error prone DNA repair enzymes and telomerase and prevents apoptosis.
Risks of contracting mesothelioma are common among those who are staying near asbestos mines. Increased risks are there for the workers of factories and workshops where asbestos is used. The risk factor can be significantly decreased by wearing protective gear while handling asbestos.
Family members of people who work in asbestos filled atmosphere may also contract the cancer through the particles carried by the worker’s clothes and hair. Showering and changing cloths after work are essential to counter this. Some building materials, especially those used for insulation contain asbestos, which may endanger the lives of the inhabitants.
The symptoms of mesothelioma would be visible only many years after the exposure to the asbestos particles. This hinders the effectiveness of treatment. If the diagnosis is done early and proper treatment taken, the life of the patient can be increased to some extent. Traditional and modern therapies like gene therapy are used to fight against the disease. But prevention is always better than cure. Avoiding the exposure to mesothelioma asbestos and handling the compound with protective gadgets will help to resist the malaise.
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