Mesothelioma

Most commonly associated with asbestos exposure mesothelioma is cancer of the membrane that serves as a lining for your chest and abdomen. A common component of older building materials such as insulation, when asbestos is inhaled and the cells within your respiratory system are exposed they initially try to rid the body of the foreign substance but are unable to do so. The continued exposure to the chemical causes cells to grow abnormally and form tumors within the mesothelium. In early stages of the disease symptoms may not be present and if you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos it is important to discuss this with your doctor.