Most people know what cancer is, but may be unaware of its various types. Mesothelioma cancer is the most aggressive form of cancer that starts developing in the linings of lungs, abdomen, or heart. There is no known cure for this cancer, but treatments are carried out to reduce the effects of mesothelioma.

What is mesothelioma cancer?
It is a common form of cancer that usually affects the lungs. Mesothelioma cancer is the most life-threatening disease as the life expectancy of patients with this disease is poor. There are several treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy that aim to reduce its effects, but the results might vary from person to person.

Mesothelioma develops in the inner linings of tissues that cover body organs, especially the lungs and chest wall. When you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, restlessness, weight loss or a swollen abdomen, there are chances that mesothelioma cancer has targeted you. There are four types of mesothelioma on the basis of location:

• Pleural
• Pericardial
• Peritoneal
• Testicular

What are the causes of mesothelioma cancer?

• The main reason behind mesothelioma cancer is exposure to asbestos, a set of six silicate minerals. More people were exposed to asbestos in America after World War II, and hence asbestos dust exposure led to an increased number of cases of mesothelioma amongst navy men, Marine Corps and also coast guards. According to a recent study, people working with asbestos are more prone to mesothelioma. Therefore, relevant authorities have set a limit for exposure to asbestos so that people working with them are less prone to cancer.
• In some cases, it is also associated with chest irradiation, thorotrast, inhalation of harmful fibrous silicates like erionite or talc.

Cancer in any form is the most dreaded disease as the chances of people surviving it is very less. Precautions should always be taken, and if any symptom is apparent, then immediate medical surveillance is required.