Take a Moment for Mesothelioma

I'm sure you've heard of mesothelioma, but there's still probably a lot that you don't know about how someone might get mesothelioma or how serious it is.  Today, I am asking you to take a moment to learn about mesothelioma and spread awareness.

MESOTHELIOMA...DID YOU KNOW?

- Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer affecting the membrane lining of the lungs and abdomen. 

- Every year close to 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma and are given an average of 10 months to live.

- Asbestos exposure is the #1 cause of occupational cancer in the US -  even more than 30 years after the peak of its use!

- Mesothelioma is not easy to diagnose.  Its symptoms resemble the symptoms of other respiratory conditions.

- No amount of asbestos exposure is safe.

- There are actually three types of mesothelioma:  pleural, peritoneal, pericardial.

- Symptoms can take a long time to appear.  In fact, they may not appear until 30-60 years after someone's initial exposure to asbestos!  

- Asbestos an be found in older homes, schools, factories, and commercial buildings.   The greatest risk comes when it becomes worn or damaged.  The fibers flake off and become airborne.  

- US veterans have the highest risk of mesothelioma.

- Contrary to popular belief, asbestos is not banned in the US.

- Men are four times as likely to be diagnosed with mesithelioma than women.  

If you still have questions about mesothelioma, visit http://www.mesothelioma.com/.