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Are Young Adults Getting Mesothelioma?

December 11, 2023

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Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. In most cases, mesothelioma affects people who are 65 years of age or older who have experienced occupational asbestos exposure. However, while mesothelioma in children and young adults is extremely rare, with only a few hundred known cases worldwide, any diagnosis of mesothelioma in a child or young adult is cause for concern since there is currently no cure for the disease.

Because mesothelioma in children and young adults is so rare, it has been challenging for researchers to identify the exact cause. The following are possible causes of asbestos exposure:

• Secondary exposure: Secondary exposure can occur when a child or young adult comes in direct contact with the fibers that are on a family member’s hair, skin, or clothing. Asbestos clings to clothing, hair, and other materials and surfaces, making it easily transferable.
• Environmental exposure: Asbestos is widely dispersed in the environment and can also be found in deposits underground. If these environments are disturbed, the asbestos fibers can be released, and the toxin can affect people who are in the vicinity. Examples of possible asbestos sources include construction materials, asbestos-filled rocks from a mining site, and material from asbestos cement pipes.
• Contamination in schools and homes: The carcinogenic material is still found in homes, offices, and schools. Contaminated products may include the following:
  • Covers for air ducts
  • Popcorn ceilings
  • Insulation products
  • Roofing and siding shingles
  • Heat-resistant fabrics
  • Water tanks
  • Vinyl floor tiles, sheet flooring, some plastics, and adhesives
• Exposure to talcum powder: Certain hygiene products and children’s toys contain talc, which may contain asbestos.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma in Children?

Children and young adults with mesothelioma generally experience the same symptoms as adults, which include shortness of breath, chest pain, pleural effusion, loss of appetite, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. Doctors may confuse mesothelioma symptoms with a range of other illnesses, which makes the process of diagnosing the disease complicated. A misdiagnosis can also delay treatment and allow the disease to progress more quickly.

What Are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma in Children?

Before a child or young adult begins treatment, they must undergo various tests to diagnose the disease and determine the stage. This process may include a physical exam, imaging scans, biopsies, bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy, thoracotomy, and a cytologic exam. The recommended treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or a combination.

Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler Represent Clients With Asbestos Diseases

If you need legal help after your loved one was diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 215-569-4000 or contact us online. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.