A single layer of compressed cubical cells cover our important organs.  This layer is called mesothelium and it lines the serous cavities of our body.  When the minute particles of mesothelioma asbestos get deposited in it, the cells of mesothelium become carcenogenic.  Slowly and continuously it spreads to the diagonally opposite organs and their functions are ruffled.  The victim therefore suffers from a early death.  According to statistics exposure to asbestos is the reason behind almost 90 % of all mesothelioma cases.

Being a highly useful natural mineral, asbestos is put to use extensively for industrial purpose. Thin threads can be extracted from its flexible but strong fibers. Some of its industrial uses are in making cement, textiles, insulation, roof shingles etc. The health of the workers of these industries is always in peril because the thin fibers float in the air and get inhaled or swallowed by them. These particles finally reach the mesothelium. Having the ability to change the functions of macrophages, the fibers of this material create appropriate conditions for mesothelioma development. The normal working of our immune system is spoiled by the mesothelioma asbestos. This is done by deactivating tumor suppressor genes and activating proto-oncogenes, oncogenes, error prone DNA repair enzymes and telomerase and preventing apoptosis.

Mesothelioma risks are greater among people residing near asbestos mines. The most risk prone category is the workers working in the factories where asbestos is used as raw material. The risk factor can be reduced greatly by wearing protective gear while dealing with asbestos.

Even family members of the workers are not spared. They may also fall victims to the cancer through the particles carried by the worker’s hair and clothes. In order to avoid this, workers should go home after a bath and changing clothes. Some construction materials, especially the ones used for insulation contain asbestos, which can put the lives of the residents in jeopardy.

Mesothelioma symptoms start showing only many years after asbestos exposure particles.  By then the situation turns irretrievable in numerous cases.  But proper and prompt diagnosis coupled with meticulous treatment measures has prolonged the lifespan of many of us around us.  Surgery, medicine, radiation and some modern cures like gene care are partially efficacious in the struggle against this shocking malaise.  But the best way is to avoid coming into contact with mesothelioma asbestos or using protecting contraptions while handling the compound.