Mesothelioma risk factors, asbestos causes 14000 new cancer cases every year
Asbestos is found all around us and has been the main contributor to a rare cancer called mesothelioma. There are some 3000 diagnoses in the United States each year, and an estimated 14,000 cases worldwide, but many aren’t aware of this cancer, just as many are not aware of the dangers associated with its known cause, asbestos. But the World Health Organization estimates over 125 million people are exposed to asbestos at work each year. They also estimate asbestos is the cause of about half of all occupational cancer deaths.
Asbestos, fibrous minerals mined and used in construction and products for its properties, can cause mesothelioma when disturbed. We can inhale the invisible fibers, which stick to the lining of our lungs, abdomen, or heart. Because asbestos is so durable, our body is unable to break down the invader. After a long latency period of anywhere from 10-50 years, symptoms may begin to appear. Though there are three types of mesothelioma, about 80% of cases occur in the lining of the lungs. With pleural mesothelioma, the pleura lining (known as the mesothelium) faces chronic inflammation and scar tissue from the asbestos fibers, which can lead to tumors. Since the right lung is typically larger, it faces more damage than the left.
The earlier symptoms are nonspecific, making the disease very difficult to diagnose. Pleural mesothelioma can often be mistaken for other respiratory diseases or more common ailments like the flu or pneumonia. Some of the common symptoms associated with include chest pains, shortness of breath, pleural effusion, or coughing up blood. It can take weeks before a proper diagnosis is made, and cancer often isn’t found until it has already developed to a later stage.
Being aware of asbestos and where it can be found can save lives and prevent the many diseases it causes, including mesothelioma. Though asbestos has been banned in over 60 countries, it can still be found in many parts of the world. Asbestos was widely used in construction because of its fire resistant properties, so can be found in many old buildings in the roof, tiles, cement, insulation, and various other building supplies. Asbestos can be found in various other products as well, like some hair dryers, but it’s also important to remember it occurs naturally in certain rocks and soils. Regardless of where you might suspect asbestos, never try to remove it on your own. Smoking also increases the risk of mesothelioma as it does with any type of cancer.
Preventing is always easier than treating. Having said that, Budwig Center would use the research Dr. Johanna Budwig left us to treat this type of cancer as well as all types of cancer. Eliminating toxins becomes a priority in cases of mesothelioma. We check to see the levels of heavy metals and then implement a protocol with coffee enemas and natural remedies composed of algae to remove heavy metals from the body. Emphasis would also be given to skin brushing and rebounding sessions for the lymph system to function at its best.