Understanding Mesothelioma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Microscopic Mysteries: Asbestos, Ultrafine Particulates, and Mesothelioma 

ByHolly Zink

Understanding how tiny particles in the air affect our health is challenging. A new study explores the health effects of asbestos and ultrafine particles. Researchers highlight the need for clearer definitions and better research. Asbestos is a toxic mineral found naturally throughout the world. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, a rare cancer. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is not very common. This kind of cancer tends to affect older patients more, especially those over 40, and is more common in men. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a material used in old buildings. Defining Asbestos and Ultrafine Particulates Asbestos and ultrafine particles are tiny and can be harmful when breathed in. But, their exact definitions are not clear,…

Mesothelioma Risk May Decline in Libby
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Mesothelioma Risk May Decline in Libby

ByAlex Strauss

A small bit of good news for the beleaguered town of Libby, Montana where mesothelioma has become a household word.  Declared a Superfund site by the EPA in 1999 because of high levels of asbestos from its vermiculite mines, Libby has been the site of the massive cleanup operation ever since.  According to the latest report, the EPA claims that the air in Libby is mostly safe to breath. Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, as well as asbestosis, lung cancer, and other serious lung disorders.  Libby’s high levels of asbestos, which spewed into the air from the mines and settled like dust across the town for more than 40 years, touched off a rash of mesothelioma cases, bringing it to…