What Is Mesothelioma?

Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the pleura, the outer lining of the lungs. So it is actually outside of the lungs as opposed to lung cancer which occurs inside the lungs.

Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity.

Pericardial mesothelioma involves the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart).

Although it most often involves the lungs (pleural), its occurrence is not related to smoking, (However, smoking does greatly increase the risk of other asbestos-related cancers.)

It is has most commonly been linked to asbestos exposure and, unfortunately, very little exposure may cause this disorder. The latency period between exposure and symptoms or diagnosis can be as long as a few decades.

Diagnosis is by biopsy (tissue sample) The disease carries a poor prognosis. Research to develop screening tests for the early detection of mesothelioma is ongoing.

There is evidence that mesothelioma patients and, in general, those exposed to asbestos have weakened immune systems. Therefore, anything that can help to improve and maintain the immune system may, logically, have a possible protective effect. Remember, your body has a great ability to heal itself and avoid pain when correctly treated. See the Healthy Lifestyle section of this website.

Mesothelioma Causes Describes the causes which are largely related to asbestos exposure.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma These are very slow developing so if you have had earlier asbestos exposure it is good to be aware of them.

Treatment for Mesothelioma This page mentions a few more natural approaches as opposed to conventional treatments.