Gastrointestinal Cancer and Asbestos Exposure

Each year, an estimated 10,000 Americans die from diseases caused by exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral found naturally throughout the world. For many decades asbestos was used in a number of industries and workplaces, such as electrical work and shipbuilding. For more information about at-risk workplaces, please see Occupations at Risk for Asbestos Exposure. To read more about asbestos, please see Asbestos Overview.

Though mesothelioma and lung cancer are more commonly related to asbestos exposure, there is another, less commonly diagnosed illness that has been connected to asbestos exposure - gastrointestinal cancer. Although a causal relationship between exposure to asbestos and the development of gastrointestinal cancers has not been confirmed, many experts agree that exposure to asbestos has shown a strong link to the development of such cancers.

For example, one study conducted by the Cancer Registry of Norway found that lighthouse keepers who drank water tainted with asbestos particles had an elevated incidence of stomach cancer. Scientists concluded the results support an association between ingestion of asbestos and some gastrointestinal cancers. According to the findings of another study, all workers who have been exposed to asbestos show an elevated risk for developing stomach and gastrointestinal tract cancers.

Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract typically grows slowly and forms cells that produce hormones in the tract, including the appendix and small intestine. Studies show that having gastrointestinal cancer increases a person's risk for eventually developing cancers of the stomach and other regions of the body. Like other cancers associated with exposure to asbestos, gastrointestinal cancers caused by asbestos may remain latent for a long period of time, taking years or even decades before symptoms arise. This poses a serious challenge to victims of asbestos exposure and the doctors treating them, as the cancer may develop to a critical stage before diagnosis.

Unfortunately, gastrointestinal cancer may show no symptoms in early stages, which makes it difficult to detect. If the cancer spreads to the liver, an afflicted person may experience a flushing of the neck, diarrhea and stomach ailments, shortness of breath, or wheezing. Those who suspect they may have been exposed to asbestos should contact a physician and an experienced mesothelioma lawyer, as these professionals can help asbestos victims seek proper treatment and compensation for undue illness.

A number of factors influence one's level of risk for developing gastrointestinal cancer. The amount of asbestos a person has been exposed to plays a major role, as does the amount of time spent in an environment contaminated with asbestos fibers. As each of these factors increases, so does a person's risk of developing a serious illness. Additionally, facets of lifestyle are factors as well, such as one's general health and ability to fight off disease, medical history, and a previous diagnosis of cancer of the stomach or gastrointestinal tract. Those who smoke are more likely to develop gastrointestinal cancer after being exposed to asbestos.

Cancer doctors diagnose asbestos-related diseases with the help of a number of medical tests, including a physical exam, review of medical history, urine tests, blood counts, and a variety of imaging scans. These scientific methods are the best ways to determine the presence of gastrointestinal cancer, thus, those who believe they may have been exposed to asbestos should seek medical advice from a physician and the counsel of a knowledgeable attorney.

Sources:

Mesothelioma News

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