Frequently Asked Questions Mesothelioma is one of the most
devasating and dangerous diseases of the modern day, but few
people understand the nature of the condition until they have
first hand experience. These frequently asked questions should
help illuminate some common concerns about this disease. What is
asbestos? Asbestos is a naturally occurring, fibrous mineral
traditionally used for insulation in construction, engineering,
and scientific industries. Asbestos releases microscopic fibers
into the air that when inhaled, can cause a number of health
hazards. What is mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a rare type of
cancer caused by asbestos exposure that affects the lining of
the lungs, abdomen, and the heart. What are the symptoms of this
disease? Symptoms for mesothelioma include shortness of breath,
chest pain, or coughing up blood. Mesothelioma is difficult to
diagnose because it shares symptoms with many different
conditions, or natural signs of aging. Also, different types of
mesothelioma cause different