Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue surrounding vital organs such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing. The most common form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, while peritoneal mesothelioma impacts the abdominal lining. Due to its long latency period, symptoms may take decades to appear, often making early detection and treatment challenging.
