Mesothelioma: symptoms and treatments in women

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects tissue in the body's internal organs, called the mesothelium . The disease is often associated with exposure to asbestos , a chemical used primarily in construction and manufacturing. However, not only can exposure to asbestos cause mesothelioma, but so can exposure to toxic substances such as silica , cadmium, and beryllium . Often the initial signs are non-specific, i.e. they may be the same as those caused by other disorders affecting the cardiorespiratory system. These are usually shortness of breath ( dyspnoea ), chest or back pain, a persistent cough, and unexplained weight loss.

Most cases of mesothelioma occur in men, but women can also get the disease. In fact, there are many cases of mesothelioma among women who work in the textile industry, asbestos manufacturing, and other industries that involve exposure to toxic substances .

The extent of pleural mesothelioma , i.e. cancers associated with exposure to asbestos fibers , is not known to have gender or geographic differences. It affects not only men with documented occupational exposure to asbestos fibres, but increasingly women, and for no specific reason: nearly four out of 10 have had no possible or probable occupational exposure to asbestos.

It is worth noting that women are generally more sensitive to toxic substances than men . This is because women have less muscle mass and less body water than men, which means toxins are more concentrated in their bodies. Additionally, women have more complex endocrine systems than men, which means they may respond differently to toxic substances. An example is mesothelioma in a worker's wife who brought home dirty, stringy overalls for cleaning. So the fact that 37% of women had unlikely or unknown exposure almost makes us consider it a gender pathology."

The symptoms of mesothelioma in women can vary depending on the location of the tumor. However, the most common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent cough, nausea, weight loss and fatigue . It is important for women experiencing these symptoms to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Mesothelioma treatment is usually a combination of surgery , radiation and chemotherapy . Treatment can help slow the growth of the tumor and relieve symptoms. However, mesothelioma is a progressive disease and survival depends on the location of the tumor and the stage of diagnosis.

Prevention of mesothelioma in women largely depends on preventing exposure to toxic substances . Women who work in high-risk industries such as asbestos manufacturing and the chemical industry should take precautions to protect themselves from toxic substances. This may include wearing personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves , as well as following occupational safety procedures and avoiding exposure to toxic substances. Asbestos-exposed workers diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma must have worked as occupational health professionals. In this way it is verified that the conditions exist for being able to request INAIL compensation protection .

Additionally, women should adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet , regular exercise, and avoid smoking . Mesothelioma prevention in women requires a combination of knowledge, safe behaviors and a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of exposure to toxic substances .

In conclusion, mesothelioma is a dangerous disease that also affects women. Most cases of mesothelioma occur in men, but women who are exposed to toxic substances in the workplace are at risk of developing the disease. It is important for women with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and a persistent cough to see a doctor as soon as possible. Preventing mesothelioma in women requires avoiding exposure to toxic substances and adopting a healthy lifestyle.