Date updated: June 01, 2009
Content provided by The Asbestos & Mesothelioma Center

Also called: Malignant Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells found in one's body. These cells form membranous linings that surround and protect the body's organs, and line body cavities such as the chest and abdomen. Approximately two-to-three thousand cases of Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States, comprising around three percent of all cancer diagnoses. All forms of Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma, except for benign mesothelioma, are invariably fatal. Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma is a very aggressive form of cancer that is difficult to diagnose and highly resistant to treatment, and full recovery is extremely rare. Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous substance that was widely used in the twentieth century in a number of different industries. Popular because of its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties, it was regularly used in the manufacture of several thousand different products, up until the time that asbestos warnings were issued in the mid 1970s. The exact way in which asbestos causes Mesothelioma Cancer or Malignant Mesothelioma is not well understood though doctors and researchers have put forth many hypotheses. What is apparent, however, is that any length of exposure to asbestos can be hazardous and may result in the development of asbestos-related diseases later in life.