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Why does asbestos become the "invisible killer" of cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is the most common cancer in the thin layer of tissue that covers many internal organs, and its development is closely associated with exposure to asbestos. The development of this cancer usually does not occur until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos, and symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing and weight loss. This makes people realize the dangers that asbestos may hide in our lives.
According to reports, approximately 125 million people worldwide have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Those at high risk include miners, asbestos product manufacturers, and people living around asbestos workers.
Hazards and exposure routes of asbestos
Asbestos' inherent chemical properties make it an excellent insulating material and has been widely used in construction since the 19th century. However, its carcinogenicity was only gradually recognized in the mid-20th century. The small size and insidious nature of asbestos particles means that even very limited exposure can lead to adverse consequences. Over time, asbestos fibers accumulate in the lungs and other organs, which in the long term may lead to the development of diseases such as malignant mesothelioma.
The attack of asbestos on the human body may slowly show up within forty years after exposure, which undoubtedly makes it an "invisible killer" of cancer.
Symptoms and early diagnosis
The symptoms of malignant mesothelioma are often not obvious in the early stages, causing patients to miss the best time for treatment. As the disease progresses, people may develop fluid in their lungs, fever, fatigue, and significant weight loss. Doctors may suspect malignant mesothelioma on a chest X-ray or CT scan, but a thoracentesis or biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Prevention strategies and treatment options
In the face of such serious risks, emphasizing the reduction of asbestos exposure is the most effective way of prevention. Current treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. For patients who already have the disease, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment can improve the chances of survival. However, even so, the five-year survival rate is still only about 8%.
In 2015, approximately 60,800 people were diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma in the United States, resulting in 32,000 deaths. Rates of the condition varied significantly between countries, with Australia and the UK reporting significantly higher numbers of cases.
Conclusion
As an extremely dangerous substance, the health risks caused by asbestos cannot be underestimated. Its long-term effects and hidden nature make attention to its dangers an important task for public health. Today, for the asbestos that still exists in buildings, how can we more effectively detect and control it to prevent more innocent people from being harmed?
