Symptoms of Non-Cancerous Asbestos Diseases
Non-cancerous asbestos diseases may not show symptoms immediately, similar to cancers. Asbestosis, a common non-cancerous asbestos-related condition, is characterized by symptoms such as a persistent dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. On the other hand, individuals with pleural plaque may not experience any symptoms at all. However, those with pleural effusion may experience chest pain localized on one side.
Understanding Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that primarily affects the lining surrounding the lungs, known as the pleura. It is estimated that exposure to a particular substance is responsible for 70 to 80 percent of mesothelioma cases in the United States. However, it’s important to note that mesothelioma can also target the linings or pleura of other organs such as the stomach, testicles, and heart.
Regrettably, the prognosis for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma is generally discouraging. This aggressive and often fatal cancer is associated with a relatively short life expectancy of less than one year.