Did you mean Mesothelioma?

“Mesotheliomia” is a common misspelling of the word mesothelioma (“pronounced mez-uh-thee-lee-YOH-muh). Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is attributed to previous asbestos exposure. Of the three types of mesothelioma – peritoneal, pericardial, and pleural – pleural mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining of the lungs, is the most frequently diagnosed.

World War II veterans are considered to be among the group of individuals who are most likely to develop mesothelioma cancer, as the ships, aircraft and automobiles built and utilized during the WWII-era were laden with harmful asbestos. Other people, including construction workers, HVAC technicians, drywallers, and firefighters are also more likely than some to contract an asbestos-related illness.

Those who were present during the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 are also more likely to develop an asbestos illness like mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer. In fact, hundreds of EMTs, firefighters, NYPD and volunteers have already reported respiratory diseases as a result of the clouds of asbestos dust that lingered in the air for months following the 9/11 disaster.

If you are an individual who may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to talk with a doctor about your chances of developing a related disease, such as mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Last modified: February 15 2010.