Having a family member with mesothelioma has been proven to increase the risk of developing the disease. So, does this mean mesothelioma is inheritable?
No, it does not. You cannot inherit mesothelioma, but it is possible that genetic factors could have played a role in your contracting it.
BAP1 gene mutation
The BAP1 gene is a tumor suppressor. It helps control cell growth and ensures proper progression through the cell cycle, preventing tumors from forming. When someone develops mesothelioma, the BAP1 gene sometimes becomes mutated, resulting in the loss of its ability to suppress tumors.
BAP1 mutations can be passed down to future generations (germline mutations), although not all BAP1 mutations are inherited. Some occur later in life (somatic mutations).
A BAP1 mutation will increase the chance that asbestos exposure results in mesothelioma. This is one potential explanation of why two coworkers could be exposed to similar amounts of asbestos, but only one of them develops mesothelioma.
There are, of course, many other possible explanations, but it is worth bearing this one in mind if a company or its insurer tries to shirk responsibility by claiming that your colleague not developing the disease shows the workplace was safe and that your asbestos exposure must have happened elsewhere.
Secondary exposure to asbestos
Another factor that increases the chances of members of a family being diagnosed with mesothelioma is secondary exposure. If you live with someone who works with asbestos, they may carry asbestos fibers home. Inhaling or ingesting these fibers puts everyone in your home at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma can substantially impact your life. Tracing the cause is not always simple and nor is holding someone responsible. Experienced legal guidance can increase your chances of success.