Mesothelioma: Disease info on asbestos related illnesses.

Cancer: Mesothelioma
by D. NF
Mesothelioma is a disease most commonly caused by asbestos exposure. Most people who have mesothelioma have worked in an area with asbestos. Common symptons include:

chest pain
pleural effusion (fluid surrounding the lung)
shortness of breath
wheezing, coughing, hoarseness*

Mesothelioma is often hard to diagnose, because symptoms are similar to other conditions. The first lawsuits regarding Mesothelioma occured in 1929, and since then there have been many court cases (including class actions).

Resources:

These are links that I find should be helpful in dealing with and learning more about your disease.

National Cancer Institute Mesothelioma Questions and Answers

CancerBACKUP

Wikipedia Mesothelioma

It can be very difficult not only from the individual suffering from this cancer, but also for friends and family. I always recommend that couseling be conducted in groups for the families of those suffering. The pressure of handling a loved one's illness can sometimes be too much to handle and counseling can be very helpful.

*If you are suffering from any of these symptons, if could be a completely different diagnosis. A physical examination from a doctor can help to determine if Mesothelioma is present.

Specialized Topics:
A British resource for those suffering from the disease
Mesothelioma in Children
Techincal Guide to Lung Cancer

Technical Information:
Mesothemlioma is a cancer of mesothelial cells. These cells cover the outer surface of most internal organs, forming a lining that is sometimes called the mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma can develop around the cells of the lungs and abdomen.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits:
Because of the negligence factor involved with companies using asbestos, mesothelioma litigation has become widespread. A simple search on google will find you a lawyer in your area willing to represent you or your loved one.

Citizens In Action