Who is at Risk for getting Mesothelioma?
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a natural mineral that can be found in dust and rocks in the United States. Asbestos was used in the past in products such as insulation, floor tiles, and roofing. Most use of asbestos was stopped in 1989. Asbestos fibers that are breathed in can travel to the lining of the lungs causing damage to lung cells. These damaged lungs cells can lead to pleural mesothelioma. When swallowed, asbestos fibers can reach the lining of the abdominal cavity where they can contribute to the development of peritoneal mesothelioma. People at risk for asbestos exposure include some miners, factory workers, and makers of insulation, railroad workers, ship builders, gas mask makers, and construction workers. The risk of getting mesothelioma depends on the amount of asbestos a person was exposed to and for how long. The time between the first exposure and developing the disease is often between 20 and 50 years.