No, asbestos exposure does not always cause mesothelioma. While asbestos is a known carcinogen and is the leading cause of mesothelioma, it is not the only cause. Other factors can contribute to a person’s risk for developing mesothelioma, such as genetics, smoking, and radiation exposure.
Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma, and it is estimated that around three-quarters of all mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in construction materials, insulation, automotive products, and other materials until it was banned in the 1970s due to its carcinogenic properties.
When asbestos is disturbed, it releases tiny fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can become lodged and cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, these fibers can cause the cells in the lungs to become damaged, leading to the development of mesothelioma.
While asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma, other factors can also increase a person’s risk for developing the disease. These include genetics, smoking, and radiation exposure. For example, people who have inherited certain genetic mutations, such as BAP1, may be more susceptible to developing mesothelioma. Similarly, smoking cigarettes can increase a person’s risk for developing mesothelioma, as can radiation exposure.
In conclusion, while asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma, it is not the only cause. Other factors, such as genetics, smoking, and radiation exposure, can also increase a person’s risk of developing the disease.