Teachers can be at risk

I find the thought of this disease, Mesothelioma, very frightening.  I have been a professional educator for 35 years.  During that time period I have taught in MANY old buildings that undoubtedly contained asbestos.  I am certain that I must have been exposed to it at some point in my career.

I only know one person who has the disease.  Periodically he has to make a trip up to the Mayo clinic for treatment.  Recently I have noticed that he has been losing weight. Weight loss is, I believe, one of the indicators of Mesothelioma.  I hope that he is not losing his battle with this disease.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is usually contacted by inhaling  asbestos.  It surrounds a membrane that surrounds the lungs and other internal organs.

About 30 years after the exposure of asbestos the person will start getting shortness of breath, and pains in the chest.  These symptoms are a result of an accumulation of fluid in the pleura and usually indicate pleural mesothelioma, weight loss with abdominal pain due to swelling caused by a buildup of fluid in the abdomen.

There are many different options for treatment .  Depending on the severity and your treatment plan you should be feeling better after awhile.