Mesothelioma: Risk Factors for Humans

Mesothelioma is a malignant tumor arising from the cells of the mesothelium, a thin lining found around the lungs, abdomen and other parts of the body. The main cause of this disease is exposure to asbestos, a toxic substance found in old buildings, insulating fabrics, pipes and construction materials.

This type of cancer mainly affects males and represents 0.8% of all tumors found in males in Italy. Most mesotheliomas affect lung tissue. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can enter the lungs and digestive system, causing damage to mesothelium cells.

Once diagnosed, mesothelioma is often already in an advanced stage and the prognosis is extremely poor. The median survival for mesothelioma is just 12-21 months, and the five-year survival rate is less than 10%. This makes mesothelioma one of the deadliest types of cancer, with a shorter life expectancy than many other forms of cancer.

Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, there is no complete cure for the disease, and the effectiveness of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the stage it is in. In some cases, patients may participate in clinical trials to test new treatments.

In conclusion, it is important to raise awareness about the existence of mesothelioma and the risks associated with exposure to asbestos to actively fight this disease.