Once inside the body, asbestos has the potential to slowly damage DNA in ways that cause a cell to become cancerous. Once a cell turns cancerous, it replicates uncontrollably, resulting in a buildup of cells that slowly forms into a tumor.

Mesothelioma is unique in the way it grows. Most tumors form as a singular mass. But mesothelioma tumors more commonly develop as numerous small nodules on the lining of the lungs or abdomen.

The nodules eventually grow and merge, forming a sheath-like tumor often compared to a fruit rind. As the cancer progresses, the tumor envelopes vital organs and causes physical effects such as pain or difficulty breathing.

Tumors originating in the lung lining will first affect pulmonary health, while those developing in the abdominal lining will first affect the digestive system.

Physical signs of mesothelioma usually arise in later stages of development. It is rare for stage I or II mesothelioma to cause noticeable symptoms.

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Mesothelioma: Physical & Mental Effects of Asbestos Cancer