- Mesothelioma is primarily believed to be caused by exposure to asbestos and the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos particles.
- Asbestos is a set of six naturally occurring silicate minerals which share a common crystal growing form. They grow as sharp, thin, long and flexible fibers and because of their great strength and resistibility to heat and harsh chemicals, it is incredibly useful in industries. However, they are found to be carcinogenic and inhaling asbestos fibers is dangerous.
- An individual may be at risk to develop mesothelioma if he or she is exposed to asbestos in the workplace or at home consistently.
- Individuals may also suffer from secondhand exposure to asbestos such as by growing up in the shadow of an asbestos plant or mine, living near a natural source, and having family members who work with asbestos and inadvertently bring fibers into home on their clothes, skin, or in their hair.
- Recent events have also shown that exposure to a large amount of asbestos for a short amount of time may also result in development of this disease.
- In addition, researchers have studied the impact of certain genetic factors on the development of mesothelioma and noted that those with a family history of cancer have a greater chance of developing mesothelioma.
- Other less known contributing factors include: Asbestos-Like Minerals, Simian Virus 40 (SV40), Smoking, Radiation Exposure and Carbon Nanotubes.
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