Non-Lung Cancers Caused Asbestos Exposure
Article by Michael Enfield
Asbestos is a material that once was extremely popular for everything from insulation to car parts. However, it has been recognized as carcinogenic to humans. It seems as if the two cancers most often associated with asbestos are pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer. While these are definitely two of the most common disorders associated with asbestos exposure, this human carcinogen can also cause a variety of non-lung cancers as well.
As asbestos or asbestos-containing items age, the fibers can break down and become friable, or able to break off and become airborne. From here, it is easy for people in the surrounding area to inhale the particles, which is why this material is most often associated with lung diseases. However, the microscopic fibers can also settle on food, cooking utensils, and even in your drink. When you eat or drink the contaminated item, the asbestos fibers can travel through your digestive system, become lodged in anywhere from your mouth to your anus.
Unfortunately, when the particles become lodged in your body, it is actually nearly impossible for your cells to break down and digest the asbestos in order to get rid of it. Instead, nodules form over the invader, which can later turn into cancerous tumors. When these fibers travel through your digestive system, it can result in cancers including that of the throat, stomach, gallbladder, colon, and anus.
Additionally, asbestos can travel outside of your digestive system as well. Sometimes, the body may filter the fibers through the bloodstream, which then carries the carcinogenic particles to other organs. This can cause kidney and liver cancer. Because the blood carries the fibers, it can develop cancer such as leukemia. Lymphoma is also associated with asbestos exposure as the lymph system filters fluids throughout the body.
Lastly, asbestos exposure can also cause reproductive system cancers. One form of mesothelioma attacks the testicles, while medical studies have shown that asbestos exposure serves as a risk factor for ovarian and prostate cancers.
Whether you develop a lung-related or non-lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, you deserve more information regarding asbestos exposure, treatment options, and more. Please contact the Asbestos Help Center today to learn more.
About the Author
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, it is important to educate yourself about the disease, its treatment, and how to cope with it. At the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Help Center, we strive to offer support to those who are suffering from mesothelioma and other damages from asbestos. Please contact us today to discuss your situation.