Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that is becoming more common as per recent statistics all over the world. The cells lining the body’s cavities that surrounding the lungs, heart and abdomen are infiltrated by cancerous cells causing Mesothelioma.

Asbestos the major risk factor

The direct and secondary exposure to asbestos has been shown to the major risk factor for Mesothelioma. The fibrous metamorphic minerals namely chrysolite, tremolite, actinolite, amosite, crocidolite and anthophyllite form the asbestos group.

This miracle mineral has been widely used as an insulator in many places since time immemorial and its link with the disease has been established as early as 1960’s.

In nature the chrysolite (or white) asbestos is known to be the safest and tremolite has been used in some brands of talcum powder. The remaining four types called amphibole minerals are made of straight needle-like fibers and used in various industries. These fibres can end up in the linings of the body cavity in unprotected industrial workers, construction workers and miners by various routes. The family members and others living with asbestos workers are also at increased risk due to the asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of the workers.

Other causes

Mesothelioma is also not a contagious or an inherited disease. Smoking and prior exposure to the known cause also increases the persons risk for mesothelioma and other types of lung cancer.

Mesothelioma occasionally develops in people never exposed to the known cause. In rare cases the disease develops in people who have been exposed to radiation or to certain minerals closely related to asbestos. Exposure to radiation from thorium dioxide (Thorotast) that was used until 1950’s in X-ray tests have shown to be one of the reasons for the development of mesothelioma.

Scientists also think that SV40 (simian virus) may act as a cofactor if already exposed to any of the major risk factors. It is far less important risk factor than asbestos and doesn’t cause disease on its own.

In Turkey there are reports to show that a mineral called Zeolite may cause mesothelioma.