How to Avoid Getting Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium, a tissue that surrounds the body's inner organs. Mesothelioma is usually caused by breathing in asbestos and the best way to prevent it is to avoid exposure to asbestos. This page covers how to avoid getting mesothelioma.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

(Creative Commons photo by ktheory)

• Mesothelioma, like Asbestosis, is caused by exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral which is found naturally in the air and in nature. Asbestos is also used in the construction of buildings. Although it is not possible to completely avoid exposure to asbestos, mesothelioma is best prevented by limiting exposure. People are exposed to small amounts of asbestos naturally, but not enough to be harmful. It is generally the exposure of asbestos in buildings and during work such as mining and factory work, that is harmful and a cause of mesothelioma.Department of Health and Human Services: Asbestos American Cancer Society: Can Malignant Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

• Most exposure to asbestos is occupational. Mining and construction are two professions which can result in exposure to asbestos. Some use of asbestos in construction is legal in the U.S., although the use has been restricted. Construction companies should have safety precautions and guidelines in place to limit asbestos exposure.

1. There are a number of resources available for construction workers on how to limit asbestos exposure. A good place to start is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's a Web site designated to asbestos. It can be accessed here: EPA: Asbestos
2. If you are working for a construction company, follow all guide lines and precautions for asbestos exposure carefully.

• Family members or other people living together with workers who are exposed to asbestos can be the victims of second-hand asbestos exposure. Preventive steps should be taken by the worker to change clothes and shower before leaving the work place.National Cancer Institute: Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers

1. Asbestos in buildings do not generally pose harm unless the asbestos is disturbed and thereby released in the air. This can be caused by decomposure, renovations or other factors.American Cancer Society: What Are the Risk Factors for Malignant Mesothelioma?

2. It is therefore usually more harmful to remove the asbestos than to leave it alone, unless the asbestos is already being released by decomposure to the building or renovations.American Cancer Society: Can Malignant Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

3. If you have asbestos in your building, never attempt to remove it or conduct renovations that could release it yourself, unless you are a professional construction worker.American Cancer Society: Can Malignant Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

• To prevent mesothelioma, limit exposure to asbestos, and when exposed, follow all safety precautions and guidelines.

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