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Posted on Monday, Dec 21, 2009

Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers, can take up to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos has occurred. Scientists have not yet determined why some people with years of asbestos exposure never develop mesothelioma, while others with minimal asbestos exposure develop mesothelioma. Due to this, researchers believe multiple factors contribute to the likelihood of developing mesothelioma.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the following factors may increase the risk of mesothelioma:

Personal history of asbestos exposure. If you had a job where you handled asbestos and breathed in its dust and fibers, or if you have been exposed to asbestos fibers through other means, such as being around renovations where asbestos was disturbed, your risk of mesothelioma is greatly increased.

Living with someone who works with asbestos. Tradesmen who work with asbestos can inadvertently put their family at risk when particles that cling to their clothing, shoes, skin and hair and are carried into the house. This “second-hand” exposure, known as para-occupational exposure, can put others in the home at risk of mesothelioma.

Smoking. While smoking alone is not known to cause mesothelioma, the risk of mesothelioma is increased greatly in smokers who are exposed to asbestos.

SV40. Simian virus 40 (SV40), a virus originally found in monkeys, has been indicated as having a link to mesothelioma. Exposure to SV40 occurred to millions when receiving polio vaccinations, made from monkey cells, between 1955 and 1963. Scientists do not agree as to whether SV40 increases the risk of mesothelioma.

Radiation. Another past medical link to mesothelioma is through the radioactive substance thorium dioxide. This was used along with X-rays from the 1920s to the 1950s. Thorium dioxide was later found to cause cancer and the use was discontinued.

Family history. A family history of mesothelioma may increase the risk of mesothelioma. A study is underway by Wake Forest School of Medicine to determine how mesothelioma risk is associated with family history and genetic susceptibility.