The mesothelium is a thin layer of tissue that encapsulates the major organs in the body. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that attacks this layer of tissue, which causes excessive pressure on the underlying organs. Complications of this condition include chest pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing and fluid buildup in the chest. In the worst of cases, it can be fatal. Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer, and the best treatment for it is preventing it from happening in the first place.
Step 1
Look for asbestos at your job. Asbestos is a type of mineral fiber that is used for the manufacture of insulation, shingles, floor tiles, transmission parts, brakes, heat-resistant fabrics and gaskets. If you are a railroad worker, ship builder, miner, factory worker, carpenter or mechanic, find out if you are exposed to fumes or dust of these materials on a daily basis. If you are uncertain, ask your boss. Exposure to asbestos is one of the main causes of mesothelioma.
Step 2
Wear protective gear. If you are, in fact, subjected to asbestos where you work, wear protective equipment to prevent breathing it in. This can be a ventilated mask, long-sleeve shirt, goggles, gloves and hat. You can also wear a pair of overalls to cover your whole body.
Step 3
Take off your work clothes, wash your hands and even take a shower when you are going on a lunch break and leaving for the day. You want to get as much of the asbestos fibers off your body as possible to prevent breathing them in. If you come home with asbestos on your clothes, you also put your family in harm's way.
Step 4
Look for asbestos in your home. Asbestos was once used as an insulation and fire retardant to wrap pipes. Have an expert in this field come to your house and inspect the air if you suspect there is asbestos present.
Step 5
Hire someone who is qualified with asbestos removal to remove it if you do find it and it is not damaged. Do not try to remove it by yourself. This can cause it to break, and fumes and dust can come up into the air.
Step 6
Quit smoking. Smoking is known for its damaging effects to the lungs. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you are exposed to asbestos and smoke, your risk for developing mesothelioma is greatly increased. If you currently smoke and are exposed to asbestos, give it up. If you do not smoke and are exposed to asbestos, then don't start.
