Learn the Facts

What is Pleural Mesothelioma?

There are multiple types of mesothelioma – a cancer usually caused by long-term exposure to the fibrous mineral asbestos. One of these is pleural mesothelioma, which is the most common type of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma or lung mesothelioma is a dangerous form of lung cancer. It is a very rare condition, with only about 2,500 diagnoses in the United States every year.

Unfortunately, pleural mesothelioma is also extremely dangerous and can be difficult to catch in Stage 1 or Stage 2. There is no known cure of pleural mesothelioma, and survival usually depends on the health of the victim and severity of the disease. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are all treatment options used to treat pleural mesothelioma. Less than 40% of individuals diagnosed with this cancer live one year or longer after diagnosis. It is important that you take action to see a doctor as soon as possible.

What causes pleural mesothelioma?

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in thousands of different materials and products – including building insulation and even clothing textiles – for thousands of years. Asbestos was banned in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after it was linked to numerous illnesses.

As a fibrous mineral, the sharp, microscopic particles of asbestos enter the body via inhalation, serving as a powerful irritant in the mesothelium membrane over time. The resultant scarring can lead to cancerous tumors. The most common location of these cancers tumors is in the pleural membrane – the lining of the lungs.

Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma can include:

• Sudden and unexplained weight loss
• Severe coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Trouble swallowing
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in the chest area
• Extreme, chronic exhaustion