Heather Von St. James reached out to me asking me to help spread the word of Mesothelioma. It's a rare and dangerous form of cancer. Her story is extremely touching. I know that we have all experienced a family member, friend or loved one who has been touch by this sad illness. As the research for a cure goes on, please become aware and share your knowledge. Also, take care of yourself, aways take caution and always question the slightest concern!
Here's an excerpt from the MD Anderson Cancer Center regarding Mesothelioma. You can also read more here: MD Anderson Mesothelioma
According to the American Cancer Society, between 2,000 and 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed each year with mesothelioma, a rare and dangerous cancer.
Mesothelioma starts in the mesothelium, which includes the:
- Pleura, the thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs
- Pericardium, the sac around the heart
- Peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdomen
Mesothelioma usually starts in the pleura. This type of mesothelioma also is called malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).
Asbestos Exposure is a Factor
Mesothelioma almost always is caused by past exposure to fibers of asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that in the past was used in the construction, automotive, military, marine and manufacturing industries.
When tiny particles of asbestos are made or disturbed, they can float in the air. People can breathe in the asbestos or swallow it. This may lead to serious health conditions such as cancers of the lung, larynx and kidney. It also can cause asbestosis, a non-cancerous, chronic lung disease.
In some people, asbestos fibers cause genetic changes in the pleura, the thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs. These changes may lead to mesothelioma. It can occur 20 to 50 years after a person has come in contact with asbestos.
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