Table of Contents
Can you get mesothelioma without asbestos exposure?
In rare cases, individuals develop mesothelioma without any obvious asbestos or erionite exposure. The cause in such cases is unknown (idiopathic or spontaneous mesothelioma). In such cases, it is possible that individuals experienced unknown exposure to asbestos or erionite.
How long does exposure to asbestos take to have an effect?
The effects of long-term exposure to asbestos typically don’t show up until 10 to 40 years after initial exposure. Symptoms can vary in severity. Asbestosis signs and symptoms may include: Shortness of breath.
Is asbestos the only cause of mesothelioma?
According to the American Cancer Society, 80\% of mesothelioma cases are caused by known exposure to asbestos. Studies have shown that radiation treatment for other cancers or certain genetic markers may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, asbestos remains the only proven cause of the disease.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
Some common risk factors include: Smoking: Although smoking alone is not a risk factor for mesothelioma, some think that smoking in combination with asbestos exposure may increase a person’s risk of mesothelioma. Asbestos: Exposure to asbestos is a major risk factor for mesothelioma.
Can you get mesothelioma without exposure to asbestos?
Some individuals with heavy exposure to asbestos never develop mesothelioma. Other individuals with limited exposure to asbestos have developed the disease. According to the medical literature, some individuals have developed mesothelioma after only a single exposure to asbestos.
Do SV40 infections increase the risk of mesothelioma?
There is ongoing research exploring the possibility that SV40 infections may have an effect on the development of mesothelioma. Although there is no conclusive evidence, there may be an overlap in the peak age range of those who are diagnosed with mesothelioma (ages 50 to 70) and the timing of the exposure to SV40.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?
Approximately 70 to 80\% of cases of mesothelioma result from exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until up to 30 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos. However, after symptoms become apparent, mesothelioma may rapidly progress to cause life-threatening complications.