When it comes to asbestos-related cancers, inhalation alone or a single-time exposure is known to increase the risk of contracting the disease. However, it isn’t the only factor that comes into play. Genetics is a major factor as well.

While it’s widely recognized that exposure to asbestos dust increases cancer risks, recent studies by the National Institute of Health and National Cancer Society showcase the role of genetics in amplifying these dangers. Inhaling or swallowing any form of asbestos dust can lead to various cancers affecting the lungs, throat, stomach, colorectal system, and ovaries.

Researchers have reported that certain mesotheliomas have been linked to inherited germline mutations. These cancers often manifest in individuals with minimal reported exposure to asbestos, suggesting a genetic predisposition. A genome-wide study pinpointed a common susceptibility variant on chromosome 22q13.31, significantly associated with increased lung cancer risk.

In this article, we will look into the relationship between genetics and asbestos-related cancers, exploring the latest findings, implications for diagnosis and treatment, and avenues for further research.

Cancer as a Genetic Disease

Cancer, at its core, manifests as a genetic anomaly characterized by mutations within genes responsible for cellular growth and replication. Genes, comprising segments of DNA within cells, regulate the processes governing cell division and proliferation.

The onset and progression of cancer entail a number of DNA alterations that disrupt the normal regulatory mechanisms. This results in unchecked growth and spread of malignant cells throughout the body.

Role of Asbestos in Cancer Development

While asbestos exposure stands as a well-established precursor to various asbestos-related cancers, including mesothelioma, its influence represents only one facet of the many causative factors contributing to cancer genesis.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral prized for its heat-resistant properties, has long been implicated in the development of mesothelioma and other malignancies, owing to its propensity to release tiny, inhalable fibers upon disturbance.

These fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can embed themselves within the delicate tissues of the respiratory system or abdominal cavity, inciting chronic inflammation and cellular damage that may culminate in carcinogenesis.

Diverse Causes of Malignant Mesothelioma

Contrary to conventional wisdom, emerging evidence challenges the exclusive attribution of malignant mesothelioma to asbestos exposure alone. Epidemiological studies have shown that there is a wide spectrum of mesothelioma cases exhibiting no discernible association with asbestos.

This is particularly so in segments of the population previously considered at lower risk.

Notably, a substantial proportion of pleural mesotheliomas in women and a significant majority of peritoneal mesotheliomas across genders in the United States appear disconnected from direct asbestos exposure, signaling the existence of alternative pathways to mesothelioma pathogenesis.

Expanding Perspectives on Cancer Etiology

As we learn more about cancer, it’s becoming clear that we need to look beyond the usual ways of thinking. The world now understands that cancer is not just caused by one thing but involves a mix of factors like genetics, the environment we’re in, and changes in our genes over time.

Even though we recognize asbestos as a major cause of cancer, it’s not the only factor at play. There are many different ways that cancer can develop, and we need to take all of them into account if we want to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer effectively. This means looking at everything from genetics to environmental exposures to how our genes are influenced by our surroundings.

This shows that tackling cancer requires a broad approach that takes into consideration all the different factors that can contribute to its development. By doing so, we can better understand how cancer forms and how we can stop it from happening in the first place.

Mesothelioma Genetics: Insights from Experts

In July 2019, top experts shared new knowledge about mesothelioma’s development. They said that many cancers, including mesothelioma, can be linked to changes in our genes. There are two main types of genetic changes:

1.      Ones that happen randomly and

2.      Others that are passed down in families.

Genetic Changes in Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma’s genetics are complex, involving both random changes and inherited mutations. Random changes happen when cells divide and make mistakes in copying DNA. Over time, these mistakes build up and can lead to cancer.

How Random Genetic Mistakes Happen

Random mistakes in DNA happen naturally as cells divide to make new ones. These mistakes become more common as we get older. They play a big part in causing many cancers, including mesothelioma.

Some people inherit genes that make them more likely to get mesothelioma. These genes can be passed down through families, raising the risk of developing the disease.

Learning about mesothelioma’s genetics is changing how we see the disease. It shows that both random mistakes and inherited genes can affect who gets mesothelioma. This knowledge could lead to better ways to find and treat the disease.

Understanding mesothelioma’s genetics helps doctors and researchers find new ways to fight the disease and help people who have it.

Inherited Mutations and Mesothelioma Risk

Some cases of mesothelioma are linked to inherited gene mutations. Pathogenic mutations in genes like BAP1 and other tumor suppressor genes have been found in around 12% of mesothelioma patients. Interestingly, these genetically linked mesotheliomas often occur in people who haven’t been exposed to asbestos.

Heritable gene mutations can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. These mutations, when passed down through families, can make individuals more susceptible to the disease. Even without exposure to asbestos, these mutations alone can lead to mesothelioma.

Impact of Genetic Mutations

Having a heritable gene mutation doesn’t always mean someone will get mesothelioma. However, it can make them more vulnerable to the disease. In some cases, the presence of certain genetic mutations can be enough to cause mesothelioma, even without exposure to asbestos or other external factors.

Mesothelioma’s connection to genetic mutations adds complexity to understanding the disease. While asbestos exposure remains a primary risk factor, genetic factors also play a significant role. Understanding how inherited mutations contribute to mesothelioma helps researchers and doctors develop better treatments and preventive strategies.

Genetic Testing in Toxic Tort Cases

In toxic tort cases involving cancer, the culprit may not always be the toxin itself. Genetic testing can shed light on whether inherited mutations played a role in the development of the disease. This testing, often done through blood or saliva samples, helps determine the presence of genetic mutations that may contribute to cancer.

Understanding Toxic Tort Cases

Toxic tort cases are legal disputes that arise when individuals claim to have been harmed by exposure to hazardous substances. These cases typically involve plaintiffs who allege that they have suffered injuries or illnesses due to exposure to toxic chemicals or materials.

Toxic tort cases revolve around harm caused by exposure to substances that are considered harmful or toxic to human health. These substances can include chemicals, pollutants, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other hazardous materials. The harm inflicted can range from physical injuries and illnesses to property damage and environmental contamination.

Types of Harm

In toxic tort cases, plaintiffs often seek compensation for various types of harm, including:

  • Personal Injuries: Individuals may suffer from a range of health issues such as respiratory problems, neurological disorders, cancers, reproductive issues, and other medical conditions as a result of exposure to toxic substances.
  • Property Damage: Hazardous materials can contaminate land, water sources, air, and buildings, leading to property damage and decreased property values.
  • Environmental Contamination: Toxic substances released into the environment can have far-reaching consequences, affecting ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources.

Toxic tort cases are typically based on allegations of negligence, strict liability, or breach of warranty. Plaintiffs must demonstrate that the defendant (often a company or entity responsible for manufacturing or handling the toxic substance) failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to the plaintiff.

Challenges in Toxic Tort Cases

Proving causation is often a significant challenge in toxic tort litigation. Establishing a direct link between the exposure to toxic substances and the resulting harm requires extensive scientific evidence, expert testimony, and documentation of exposure history.

Additionally, toxic tort cases can involve complex legal and scientific issues, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise.

Resolution and Compensation

Resolution of toxic tort cases can involve negotiations, mediation, or trial proceedings. Plaintiffs may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, environmental cleanup costs, and punitive damages aimed at punishing the defendant for egregious conduct.

Plaintiffs’ attorneys may oppose genetic testing in these cases. To move forward with testing, it’s crucial to demonstrate the necessity of such measures. This can be achieved by presenting evidence of a family history of relevant cancers or indications in pathology findings suggesting a genetic mutation. Expert testimony is often required to convince the court to allow genetic testing.

Genetic Mutations & the Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine

Having genetic germline mutations doesn’t automatically categorize a plaintiff as an “eggshell plaintiff.”

The Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine

The Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine is a legal concept that addresses situations where a person’s health or physical condition makes them more susceptible to injury or harm than an average person. The Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine states that if a person is unusually fragile or vulnerable due to a pre-existing condition or trait, it does not excuse a defendant from liability if their actions cause harm to that person.

In other words, the defendant must take the injured person as they find them, regardless of their unique susceptibility to injury.

For example, imagine someone has a medical condition or genetic predisposition that makes them more prone to injury or illness. If another person’s negligent actions cause harm to this individual, the defendant cannot use the argument that the person’s condition made them more susceptible to harm as a defense.

Application

In legal cases, the Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine means that defendants must take responsibility for the full extent of the harm caused, regardless of the injured person’s pre-existing conditions. It prevents defendants from avoiding liability by arguing that the injured person’s condition made them more prone to harm than an average person.

The Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine ensures that individuals with pre-existing conditions or vulnerabilities are not unfairly denied compensation for injuries caused by another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct. It upholds the principle of accountability and helps ensure that victims receive fair treatment and compensation in legal proceedings.

In cases where genetic mutations can independently cause the disease, the eggshell plaintiff doctrine may not apply. Plaintiffs may argue that the genetic mutation merely reduced the amount of toxin required to trigger the disease, for which there is no defense.

However, the fundamental cause of the disease lies within the genetic mutation itself, challenging traditional legal interpretations.

Closing Remarks

Asbestos-related cancers present a multifaceted challenge, intertwining environmental exposures with genetic predispositions. Genetic research shows that there are several mechanisms driving cancer development, offering new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

However, that is not to say that people without any genetic predisposition to cancers cannot get cancers from asbestos exposure. There have been many cases where occupational exposure and even secondhand exposure has introduced lung cancers, ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or more in individuals with no prior history.

During these challenges, seeking compensation can provide vital financial support for cancer treatment. Compensation can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens, offering a lifeline to individuals and families dealing with the repercussions of asbestos exposure.

It is important to seek support from reliable legal resources like AsbestosClaims.Law. The team’s expertise can guide you and your family through the process of filing a claim, seeking compensation and getting justice. Call today to schedule a consultation.