Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, which is a protective layer covering most of internal body parts. It most commonly first occurs in the pleura, which is the lining that covers and protects the lungs. In rare cases, it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen or the heart.

The main cause for getting mesothelioma is known to be high levels of exposure to asbestos, either at hazardous work environments or by being in touch with someone who works with asbestos. Mesothelioma is not related to tobacco smoke.

When mesothelioma occurs, fluid starts accumulating in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. Other symptoms include pain in the chest wall, weakness, anaemia, constant coughing, sometimes with blood and hoarse voice or breath. In rare cases, the cancer spreads to the abdominal cavity, causing pain and lumps in the abdomen, bowel movement irregularities and weight loss. Usually diagnosing mesothelioma is complicated, since the symptoms are often ambiguous. The chances of surviving mesothelioma are generally low, since it is a type of cancer that usually affects wide areas and cannot be eliminated by surgery.

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