Mesothelioma Information
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer generally caused by exposure to asbestos (toxic magnesium silicate used in the past for insulation and fireproofing of buildings). This deadly form of cancer affects the mesothelium, or layer of specialized cells that form the lining and outer surface of most internal organs. Most commonly, Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium of the lungs and chest cavity, due to the fact asbestos is absorbed through inhalation, this is called Plueral Mesothelioma. In some cases the cancer will affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, in which case it is referred to as Peritoneal Mesothelioma.
A person with Mesothelioma can start showing symptoms over 20 years after exposure to asbestos in most cases. After the onset of symptoms a person usually only has 4-12 months to live.
Unfortunately, the general public didn't know that the companies that previously produced and marketed asbestos products knew of the risks involved. During the early days of manufacturing asbestos, medical literature documented the risks of disease caused by asbestos. Many of these companies directly disregarded advice from medical experts and continued to produce asbestos containing products. These unscrupulous companies chose profits over public health.