What is Mesothelioma Cancer?

Malignant Mesothelioma is a cancer of one or more of the following: the pleura -- lining/covering of the lung; the peritoneum -- lining or covering of the abdominal organs; or pericardium -- lining or covering of the heart. Mesothelioma cancer usually develops 15-40 years after the initial asbestos exposure. Expert opinion varies as to just how much actual exposure is necessary to develop this cancer. Many doctors believe that even light exposure to asbestos can cause Mesothelioma.

Contrary to popular belief, cigarette smoking is not a factor in the development of Mesothelioma Cancer. This cancer can also manifest through "second hand" exposure. Mesothelioma can develop in people whose only asbestos exposure came from contact with a person who worked around asbestos. There are many documented cases where a family member such as a spouse or child was exposed to asbestos while doing the laundry of a tradesman and years later developed mesothelioma.