Mesothelioma is a cancer of the membranes that surround the organs or the mesothelium. This protective layer forms sacs around the heart, lungs and abdomen. A vast majority of cases are caused by exposure to asbestos, a natural fiber that was used to make a wide array of industrial materials from the 1800's through the 1970's.

In the mid-seventies, it was discovered that asbestos causes the cells of the mesothelium to become cancerous, often forming tumors and even metastasizing to other parts of the body. About twenty percent of all people with mesothelioma have no known exposure to asbestos. Still, those who had worked in construction or plants where asbestos was used are most likely to contract the disease.

People who worked with asbestos were exposed to tiny, airborne asbestos particles on the job and, unfortunately, were likely to inhale these particles. Further, these workers were even liable to exposing their families to the danger since the particles would remain on their person and in their clothing. Because asbestos is odorless, those who came in contact with it had no idea that they were actually inhaling a dangerous, cancer-causing substance.

To further complicate matters, mesothelioma symptoms can take anywhere from twenty to fifty years to develop. Because mesothelioma symptoms resemble many other conditions, it may take several tests for a doctor to make a correct diagnosis. The most common is mesothelioma pleura which refers to cancer in the sacs that surround the lungs. If you have mesothelioma of the lungs, you are likely to experience many of the symptoms associated with lung cancer such as an obstructed air passage which can lead to shortness of breath and chest pains.

Mesothelioma can also occur in the peritoneum, the lining around the abdomen, as well the pericardium which protects the heart. When it affects the lining of the heart, symptoms could also include shortness of breath and chest pain, but you may also experience heart palpitations. Peritoneal mesothelioma can manifest itself in a bowel obstruction, weight loss and anemia. Your abdomen could also start retaining fluid and swell to an abnormal size.

If you have any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you see a doctor. Only a doctor can give you a correct diagnosis. Frequently, these symptoms are all caused by other diseases. In fact, only one person in a million currently has mesothelioma in the United States. In countries with less regulation, incidences are expected to increase. But, it is still always a good idea to get checked by your doctor to be sure.