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Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is linked to exposure to asbestos. Although malignant, mesothelioma remains a relatively uncommon malignancy, it continues to represent an important cause of mortality in numerous areas worldwide; eg, England, Wales, continental Europe, and Australia. Recent estimates suggest that in coming decades, as much as 1% of deaths among men in the United Kingdom currently aged 49-54 may be due to mesothelioma.1 Age standardized incidence rates for mesothelioma in men range from around 8 per 100,000 in Scotland, England, and The Netherlands; 2-4 per 100,000 in France, Italy, and Germany; and 1 per 100,000 in Spain.2 The corresponding rate for Australia is estimated to be around 6 per 100,000.3 The disease is more likely to occur in men than in women.
- Pleural — cancer in the chest cavity.
- Peritoneal — cancer that starts in the abdomen. (This classification is a form that represents between 10-20% of the mesotheliomas diagnosed.)
- Pericardial — cancer in the cavity around the heart. (The most rare form of mesothelioma.)
Risk factors
Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor for malignant mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers are inhaled through the breathing passages and then travel to the lining of the lungs.
Signs & symptoms
As with many cancers, the early stages of malignant mesothelioma can be overlooked as many of the symptoms can be linked to other diseases. Symptoms can include pain in the lower back or side of the chest, chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, cough, fever, and weight loss.
Detection
Physicians use one or more methods to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and these include chest x-rays, CT, MRI, or PET scans.
Treatment
Treatment options for malignant mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation, and can also include a combination of these therapies.
Mesothelioma and tumor markers
If you'd like to learn more, please refer to one of our recommended mesothelioma resources.
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