Malignant mesothelioma is rare type of cancer that occurs in the mesothelium which is the thin, protective layer that surrounds most of the internal organs. Most cases occur in the lungs but the cancer can spread to other parts of the body including the kidneys, testicles, stomach and heart. The majority of malignant mesothelioma cases are caused by exposure to asbestos.

People who worked in environments that exposed them to asbestos have the greatest risk of encountering this rare cancer. Fac...