There are several risk factors for mesothelioma. A risk factor is something that increases the chance that a person may develop a disease. Having a risk factor does not guarantee a person will develop mesothelioma, it only increases the risk of developing it.
Mesothelioma Risk Factors
Mesothelioma Risk Factors
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. Asbestos is a group of minerals once used in industrial and construction materials, but is now produced in small quantities. Asbestos was once found in products like:
# tile and flooring
# insulation
# door gaskets
# roofing materials
# cement
# plaster of paris
# joint compound
# textured paint
It is estimated that about 8 million Americans have been exposed to asbestos. It generally takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma symptoms to present themselves after a person is exposed to asbestos.
Smoking and Asbestos Exposure
The combination of tobacco smoking and exposure to asbestos can greatly increase the risk factor for developing mesothelioma. According to the American Cancer Society, no studies currently link smoking alone to mesothelioma.
Radiation
In the past, certain x-rays used a material called thorium doxide. It was later to have been found to cause mesothelioma. Fortunately, it is no longer in use.
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