Asbestos Exposure Remains the Main Cause of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma News

Genetics a Factor in Mesothelioma in Turkish Villages

March 1, 2001 — Many of the inhabitants of two villages in Turkey were genetically predisposed to mesothelioma, according to a recent journal article (free registration required, Lancet and search on Year:2001, Vol:357, Issue:9254, Page:444). Analysis of a six–generation extended pedigree of 526 individuals showed that mesothelioma was transmitted in an “autosomal dominant pattern.” In such a pattern, a child need only receive a gene for mesothelioma susceptibility from one parent to become at risk for the disease.

Previously, erionite in stones used in building houses was considered the sole cause of mesothelioma among the Turkish villagers. The new study indicated that erionite may still be a cofactor in causing malignant mesothelioma in genetically predisposed individuals.

Environmental contaminants such as asbestos may play roles similar to that of erionite in promoting mesothelioma. Also, occupational and environmental factors remain triggers for mesothelioma in those who are not otherwise genetically predisposed to the disease.

In the United States, almost all cases of mesothelioma are associated with asbestos exposure. In our experience at Brayton Purcell, we have encountered a number of family clusters of mesothelioma. While not rising to the level of a scientific study, our experience is certainly consistent with genetic predisposition playing a role in putting some individuals at increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Some experts feel that finding the genetic switch to mesothelioma could lead to early diagnosis, treatment and even prevention of the disease in susceptible individuals. The knowledge gained from the Turkish study could aid in finding “preventive strategies to lower the incidence of mesothelioma in future generations,” according to the study’s authors.