Can Smoking Cause Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries until the 1970s. While asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, some people wonder if smoking can also contribute to the development of this type of cancer. In this article, we will explore the connection between smoking and mesothelioma and discuss how quitting smoking can help prevent this devastating disease.
Smoking and Mesothelioma: A Connection?
While smoking is not a direct cause of mesothelioma, it can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer in people who have been exposed to asbestos. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking weakens the lungs and makes them more susceptible to the damaging effects of asbestos fibers. Smoking can also increase the amount of asbestos fibers that are retained in the lungs, leading to a greater risk of mesothelioma.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1970s. Mesothelioma can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos, which can make it difficult to diagnose and treat.
How Smoking Affects the Lungs
Smoking can have a number of negative effects on the lungs, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. When a person smokes, they inhale toxic chemicals that can damage the delicate tissue in the lungs. This damage can lead to inflammation, scarring, and reduced lung function, which in turn can make it more difficult for the body to fight off cancer cells.
The Link Between Smoking and Mesothelioma
While smoking is not a direct cause of mesothelioma, it can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer in people who have been exposed to asbestos. According to the National Cancer Institute, smokers who have been exposed to asbestos are five times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers who have been exposed to asbestos. This increased risk is thought to be due to the fact that smoking weakens the lungs and makes them more susceptible to the damaging effects of asbestos fibers.
The Role of Asbestos in Mesothelioma
Asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become lodged in the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancerous cells. Asbestos can take decades to cause mesothelioma, which can make it difficult to diagnose and treat.
Smoking and Asbestos Exposure: Double the Risk?
When a person has been exposed to both asbestos and tobacco smoke, the risk of developing mesothelioma can be even higher. According to the American Cancer Society, smokers who have been exposed to asbestos are up to 90 times more likely to develop lung cancer than non-smokers who have not been exposed to asbestos. This is why it is so important for people who have been exposed to asbestos to quit smoking as soon as possible.
Quitting Smoking and Preventing Mesothelioma
If you have been exposed to asbestos, quitting smoking can help reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma. When you quit smoking, your lungs begin to heal and your risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases decreases. Quitting smoking can also help reduce the amount of asbestos fibers that are retained in the lungs, which can help prevent the development of mesothelioma.
Seeking Legal Help for Mesothelioma from Smoking and Asbestos
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos and smoking, you may be entitled to compensation. Many companies knew about the dangers of asbestos exposure and failed to protect their workers, which can make them liable for the damages caused by mesothelioma. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Can Smoking Cause Mesothelioma?
While smoking is not a direct cause of mesothelioma, it can increase the risk of developing this type of cancer in people who have been exposed to asbestos. If you have been exposed to asbestos, quitting smoking can help reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma and other respiratory diseases. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos and smoking, seeking legal help can help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action – contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer today.