ly mild. This long latency period can make it challenging to diagnose mesothelioma, especially since the early symptoms can mimic those of more common illnesses.
If you or a loved one shows symptoms of mesothelioma and may have been exposed, talk to your doctor about getting some scans. A biopsy is the only way to diagnose mesothelioma; however, a full workup is important because the symptoms could be pointing to any number of other possible conditions.
After a diagnosis, there are a few treatment options. As with many types of cancer, this can involve radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, or experimental treatments. Many people opt for a multi-modal approach.
Ultimately, secondary exposure is a risk for anyone who lives with someone who works in an industry where asbestos is a hazard. Because of this, it’s important to diligently follow a thorough decontamination process and ensure that asbestos-containing materials stay on the job site.