What is mesothelioma?

A risk factor for mesothelioma is something that increases your chance of getting this cancer. Most mesotheliomas are thought to be related to asbestos exposure, although exactly how this happens isn’t known. Most people with asbestos exposure do not develop mesothelioma. Factors that may increase your risk include:

• Asbestos exposure.
• A family history of mesothelioma.
• Radiation therapy to the chest.

Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, or pain or swelling in the abdomen.

If mesothelioma is suspected, your doctor will perform an exam to check for lumps or other signs of mesothelioma. You may need tests such as a chest X-ray or a CT scan or other tests to be sure.

Treatment, which includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, is based on whether the cancer has spread (metastasized) and the stage of the cancer.