July 24, 2025
The recent death of soap star James Houghton from peritoneal mesothelioma shines a spotlight on the dangers of asbestos exposure. Houghton starred in the soap operas Knots Landing and The Young and the Restless, and received four Daytime Emmy Awards for his work as a writer on The Young and the Restless.
What Causes Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Caused by asbestos exposure, peritoneal mesothelioma forms in the lining that protects important body cavities and internal organs. It is an aggressive form of cancer in part because it is difficult to detect early; by the time it is diagnosed, it has often already spread throughout the abdominal lining.
The most common symptom of this form of mesothelioma is a build-up of fluid in the abdomen, which can cause abdominal swelling as fluid collects.
Other signs of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
There is no known cure for peritoneal mesothelioma.
The Link Between Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they are released into the air. They can then enter the body through the mouth and nose, and embed within the peritoneum (a membrane that surrounds the abdominal organs.) Once asbestos fibers settle into this lining, they can damage the mesothelial cells that line the body’s internal organs and cavities.
Mesothelial cells form a protective layer, playing an important role in lubrication, protection, and immune response. When asbestos fibers damage these cells, they divide abnormally and form tumors that harm other healthy tissue.
Asbestos exposure may lead to mesothelioma until many years after exposure. The only way to reduce the risk of developing this form of cancer is to avoid being exposed to asbestos.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that is resistant to heat and corrosion. Because of these properties, it was used in a variety of manufactured goods and building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant, before it became linked with serious diseases.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become trapped in the lungs. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation, leading to serious health complications. Exposure to asbestos is associated with mesotheliomas, as well as other diseases.
How are People Exposed to Asbestos?
These are a numerous ways in which Americans may be exposed to asbestos, including:
Anyone exposed to asbestos at some point during their lifetime is at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma.
Which Diseases are Linked to Asbestos Exposure?
Asbestos exposure is linked to various health issues and diseases.
Asbestos exposure is also associated with:
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure
Seek justice with the help of our experienced asbestos attorneys. Our asbestos law firm has represented individuals like you affected by asbestos exposure for decades, fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
Our Results
Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
A Philadelphia jury awarded a record verdict against ExxonMobil for failing to warn about cancer risks due to benzene in its petroleum products.
Private equity firm and co-defendants agree to pay $25M in Medicaid fraud case alleging mental health services provided by unqualified providers.
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