Did you mean Mesothelioma?

“Mesotheloma” is a misspelling of the word mesothelioma (“pronounced mez-uh-thee-lee-YOH-muh). Caused by previous asbestos exposure, mesothelioma is perhaps one of the most feared forms of cancer, as it has no cure and is very aggressive. It is also quite rare, however, with less than 3,000 new cases reported in the U.S. annually.

Mesothelioma can occur in the mesothelium, or lining, of the lungs, heart, or abdomen, but it is most often detected within the pleural lining of the lungs. Because mesothelioma has an atypical latency period of between twenty to fifty years, the average age of a newly diagnosed patient is generally between sixty and seventy-five years. World War II veterans who served aboard naval ships and submarines are considered to be at a very high risk of developing mesothelioma, as are the brave individuals who proudly assisted the residents of New York City in the aftermath of the World Trade Center collapse in 2001.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, you must consult a respiratory physician immediately to determine whether or not you have inhaled asbestos fibers. Due to the latency period, it could be decades before an individual experiences symptoms of an asbestos illness, so it is imperative that exposed individuals monitor their health closely.

Last modified: February 15 2010.