Mesothelioma is a type of cancer which is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. In mesothelioma , malignant type cells form and develop within the mesothelium, a protective lining which covers the internal organs of the body. Mesothelioma is most common in the pleura which is the outer lining of the lungs, but it can also arise in the peritoneum or the pericardium which protects the heart. Most people who suffer from mesothelioma have previously worked in a field where exposure to asbestos is high. There are several ways for one to become effected by asbestos. They can inhale asbestos particles, or be exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways, such as washing the clothes of a family member who worked with asbestos, or by home renovation using asbestos cement products. Almost 4,000 people die of Mesothelioma every year Almost 3000 new cases arise each year An estimated 27,500,000 million Americans alone were exposed to asbestos from 1940-1980 All throughout the 20th century more than 30,000,000 tons of asbestos were used in industrial sites Even today asbestos remains in buildings, ship yards, schools, and more. Even after the risk of asbestos has been exposed. Since 2003 more than 700 thousand people have filed claims against asbestos companies. National Cancer Institute stats show that 3000 new diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma is reported each year. Over 2000 people in the United Kingdom were diagnosed with mesothelioma in the year of 2003 Mesothelioma is a rare but serious condition. If you or a loved one as been diagnosed with mesothelioma then please contact a lawyer as soon as possible.