Definition

A type of cancer that forms in the lining of certain organs, often caused by exposure to asbestos.

Example

He was diagnosed with mesothelioma after years of working in construction.

Conversation

I read an article about mesothelioma and it was really alarming.

Yeah, that type of cancer is often linked to asbestos exposure, right?

Exactly! It's crazy how something so harmful was used so commonly in the past.

I know, it's important to raise awareness about it.

Root Explanation

Mesothelioma is formed from "meso-" (meaning middle) and "thele" (meaning nipple) combined with "-oma" (meaning tumor). The term refers to a tumor that arises from the mesothelium, which is the middle layer of tissue surrounding organs, particularly in the lungs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'middle' ('meso-') and 'tumor' ('-oma') to remember that mesothelioma is a tumor that forms in the middle layer of tissue surrounding organs.

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