Mesothelioma, often referred to as "asbestos cancer", is a cancer of the mesothelium, the tissue that lines and protects the internal organs of the body. A diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma (often simply called mesothelioma) is very serious. Most cases pass away within one to two years after receiving the diagnosis, although recent improvements in treatment (both chemotherapy and surgical treatment) have prolonged the survival times of many mesothelioma patients. Early diagnosis and proper treatment of mesothelioma can often lead to a good prognosis.

Three main types of mesothelioma:
• Pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung;
• Peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdominal cavity
• Pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the heart

The most common form is pleural mesothelioma, followed by peritoneal mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is exceptionally rare. The main known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos fibers, a mineral commonly used in insulating and fire retardant materials. Asbestos was widely used in manufacturing and construction until 1972, when it was partially banned. However, asbestos continued to be used in many household products into the late 1970's, and in automotive brakes into the 1990's.

Mesothelioma can also occur after brief contacts with asbestos this is usually the case of relatives of workers in asbestos factories who came down with the disease through minimal exposure to asbestos in the working clothes of the workers. It often takes several decades for symptoms of the disease to show up.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Symptoms Nearly 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year in the United State

Symptoms:

• Difficulty in breathing • chronic cough • chest and back pain • weight loss

Asbestos is commoner in men aged 50 years and above, though nearly anyone who has been exposed to asbestos can contract the disease. Mesothelioma is most common in industrial and construction workers, but can also result from household exposures. Many cases of mesothelioma have occurred in the children or wives of industrial workers, who have been exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on the clothing of the worker.

The only known cause of Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos fibers. If you have been diagnosed with any form of the disease, you should seek the services of a Mesothelioma attorney for legal advice. Swift Detection Can Lead To Positive Outcome When detected early enough, and treated promptly by an experienced oncologist{medical doctor who has specialized in the treatment of cancers}, the patient's prognosis is expected to be good. Early detection of this cancer and all forms cancer related to asbestos exposure is vital.