Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin membrane that surrounds the body's internal organs and cavities. Studies have found that exposure to asbestos is the primary cause for mesothelioma.

When a person inhales asbestos fibers through the mouth and nose, they can become embedded in the lining of their lungs, which leads to harmful inflammation of the pleura. In effect, the person develops mesothelioma or asbestosis, which is scar tissue that forms in the lungs. Swallowing asbestos fibers is also dangerous.

Risk factors of mesothelioma:

• Exposure to asbestos (the #1 cause)
• Being a smoker and being exposed to asbestos
• Exposure to Thorotrast, a substance once used in X-ray tests
• Exposure to Zeolite, a silica-based mineral similar to asbestos
• Exposure to Erionite, a mineral similar to asbestos

Three Types of Mesothelioma

There are three major types of mesothelioma, which are differentiated by which organs are affected, including: 1) pleural mesothelioma (affects the lung's protective lining in the chest), 2) peritoneal mesothelioma (affects the abdominal cavity), and 3) pericardial mesothelioma (affects the cardiac cavity).

Of these, three-quarters of mesothelioma cases involve pleural mesothelioma. According to the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, there are about 2,500 to 3,000 mesothelioma diagnoses each year in the United States, with a spike occurring between 1970 and 1984.

Mesothelioma is predominantly caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a microscopic, naturally-occurring mineral that lodges itself in the lining of the lungs and abdominal cavity. Usually, years go by (as many as 60) before the condition develops.

Often, those who develop mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure can seek compensation from the manufacturers of asbestos. Since medical treatment can be costly, obtaining compensation can help offset those costs.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, use our directory to find a personal injury lawyer who can help you.