Mesothelioma Myths

Separating fact from fiction

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare disease. It’s also poorly understood. But when it affects your family, fighting this formidable enemy is of the utmost importance. Battling mesothelioma requires arming yourself with accurate information. With the explosion of data available on the internet, it is now easier than ever to find information, but myths and misconceptions abound. The following sets the record straight on some of the mesothelioma myths that are out there:

• If you were exposed to asbestos in the past, there is nothing you can do to prevent mesothelioma. Although there is no way to remove the asbestos particles that may be lodged in your lungs or to get vaccinated against mesothelioma, there is a very important step you can take. Early detection is the best hope for treatment that can help you live longer.  The best case scenario is to be diagnosed before any mesothelioma symptoms appear. Contact a mesothelioma doctor about your asbestos exposure and your health concerns.
• Mesothelioma symptoms are unmistakable. In fact, the early symptoms of mesothelioma are often identical to those of less dangerous conditions. Mesothelioma symptoms—which include a dry cough, swelling, abdominal or chest discomfort, and breathing difficulties—should be evaluated by a doctor who is aware of your asbestos exposure.
• Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer. Although mesothelioma may affect the chest and some mesothelioma symptoms mimic those of lung cancer, mesothelioma is different than lung cancer. Mesothelioma does not affect the lung tissue itself, but rather the mesothelium—the thin membrane that covers the lungs and the inside of chest and abdominal cavities. While lung cancer usually manifests as a discrete tumor, mesothelioma often spreads out over the membrane before producing any mesothelioma symptoms. This condition is more difficult to treat than lung cancer, which can be removed surgically and fought with targeted radiation.
• Blood transfusions are an effective treatment for mesothelioma. Patients often get mesothelioma-related anemia from chemotherapy, which reduces their ability to make red blood cells. When the anemia becomes severe, blood transfusions are sometimes necessary to keep the patient functioning, but these do not treat the mesothelioma itself.

Just because it is on the internet does not mean it is true. Mesothelioma sufferers need to trust the information and advice they receive. A qualified mesothelioma doctor is your best resource.