Mesothelioma Help: Asbestos Exposure and Lung Cancer, Mesothelioma Lawyers & Attorneys Info

News Categories

Contributing Author

Mike Dayton is a licensed attorney and the former editor of North Carolina Lawyers Weekly and South Carolina Lawyers Weekly. He has contributed numerous articles to the North Carolina State Bar Journal and is a co-author of Capital Lawyers, a history of the Wake County (NC) Bar.

Jennifer Glatt is a freelance editor and writer. She has written and edited articles in both regional and national publications, including the North Carolina State Bar Journal. She lives in Wilmington, N.C.

Nancy Meredith is a blog writer with more than 20 years of professional experience in the Information Technology industry. She lives in Wake Forest, N.C.

Resources For Living

Latest News

Mayo Clinic’s 5-Year Fundraising Campaign Raises Research Funds for Mesothelioma

Friday, January 29, 2010

Mayo Clinic, the first and largest integrated, not-for-profit group practice in the world, announced it raised $1.35 billion in its first comprehensive fundraising campaign, and achieved this milestone in only 5 years. One area that will benefit from the funds is the research into the use of the measles virus to treat mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a serious cancer that occurs in individuals exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. Even small amounts of asbestos and infrequent exposure can create a risk for contracting mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma is highly aggressive and is resistant to many cancer treatments. Currently there is no known cure for the disease.

The Mayo Clinic Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, a virtual three-site center that “is translating laboratory findings into vanguard methods to treat cancer,” was established in 2007 with a gift from The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. Richard M. Schulze is the founder and chairman of Best Buy, and his wife Sandra Schulze died in 2001 of mesothelioma.

Schulze hopes that at the center “some cancers will be cured and that Mayo’s talented scientists and physicians will find a way. “

Source:
Mayo Clinic Campaign

Labels: mesothelioma, Research News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 7:57 AM
Link to this article

Get to Mesothelioma-Causing Asbestos Exposure With Life History, Says Belluck & Fox

Thursday, January 28, 2010

by Nancy Meredith
Exposure to asbestos, a known human carcinogen, is the direct cause of many diseases including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Tens of thousands of individuals, especially working men and women, have died from mesothelioma in the last couple of decades and there are approximately 3 ,000 new diagnoses every year.

The dangers of asbestos were known to many companies that made asbestos-related products as early as the 1920s. However, asbestos continued to be used up until the 1980s — when most asbestos products were banned in the United States and other countries. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. The latency period can be as long as 50 years. People exposed to asbestos in the 1950′s and 1960′s are just now showing signs of mesothelioma.

In a recent interview, Joseph W. Belluck, a partner in Belluck & Fox LLP , a New York law firm that focuses on representing victims of asbestos-related disease, says, “getting to the cause of asbestos-related disease involves taking a thorough life history.” There are those who know automatically how they were exposed to asbestos, then there are other people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma who have no idea how or when they could have been exposed to asbestos.

Life History
For those patients diagnosed with mesothelioma who cannot pinpoint their asbestos exposure, Belluck will delve into their life to find a point where the toxic substance could have been inhaled into their system.

Occupation. Knowing all the occupations the patient held is critical. While mesothelioma is most closely associated to industrial workers including construction workers, insulators, plumbers, pipefitters, electricians and sheet metal workers, other jobs may have involved handling asbestos. Dentists that make casts for fillings, jewelers using crucibles, and laboratory technicians who have used Bunsen burners could all have been exposed to asbestos fibers.

Occupation of Household Members. Asbestos is so toxic that mesothelioma has been diagnosed in family members whose only exposure came from contact with stray fibers and particles that have built-up on the worker’s clothing, shoes, skin and hair. This type of “second-hand” exposure to asbestos is known as para-occupational exposure.

Home Renovations or Mechanic Work. The risk of developing mesothelioma can occur due to renovation or repair work in the home, as well as through mechanical work on car brakes or clutches. Many older homes contain insulation made from asbestos fibers, which once disturbed, can be inhaled creating a risk for mesothelioma. During brake and clutch maintenance, the pads and linings are often filed down, releasing asbestos dust.

Military Background. Military personnel may have been exposed to asbestos between the 1940s and 1970s. Some jobs required military workers to cut asbestos-laden materials, or work in enclosed spaces, such as ship interiors, where loose asbestos fibers circulated freely. Even occupants of base housing constructed prior to 1970 could be at risk.

Mesothelioma Prevention Tips
While doctors are not sure why some people exposed to asbestos contract mesothelioma and others do not, the best way to prevent mesothelioma is to limit or eliminate interaction with asbestos fibers. If you know you have been exposed to asbestos in your past, contact your doctor even if you are not experiencing symptoms. Early detection can significantly increase your survival rate.

If you are aware of a potential asbestos-exposure risk, bring it to the attention of the proper authorities, and do not attempt to dispose of the asbestos yourself. Improper handling of asbestos can put you and others at risk.

Stay informed on asbestos-related news, mesothelioma treatments, and risks and hazards pertaining to asbestos in your area. The more you know, the better prepared you will be to avoid potential risks.

Labels: Featured Story

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Royal Doctor’s Family Requests Donations to Mesothelioma Research

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Dr. Ian Keith Campbell, who while working as a general practicioner at the Heacham Group Practice in Norfolk, England treated the Queen and other members of the Royal Family for over 15 years, died in December after battling a lung disease. A humanist celebration of Dr. Campbell’s life was held on January 23rd. The family has requested donations be sent to Bart’s Mesothelioma Research Fund.

Bart’s Mesothelioma Research Fund is comprised of a group of medical professionals with a goal to “improve the treatment and increase our understanding of mesothelioma and lung cancer.” Bart’s is located at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London and is one of the largest outpatient clinics in the UK for patients with mesothelioma.

Doctors at Bart’s see two or three new patients weekly as well as patients who have completed treatment and are being followed up. Bart’s staff conducts clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment as well as laboratory research.

Labels: For Your Family

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Minimizing Side-Effects When Receiving Adjuvant Therapy for Treatment of Mesothelioma

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer primarily caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. Close to 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with the cancer yearly with most cases of mesothelioma diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. The latency period can be as long as 50 years. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.

Adjuvant chemotherapy is one treatment method used for mesothelioma where chemotherapy is prescribed after surgery to kill cancerous cells that remain once the tumor was removed. In some cases, the surgery will appear to have removed all of the cancerous tissues, but some will remain that are undetectable to the medical team. This is especially true for mesothelioma patients, because the diffuse nature of mesothelioma’s invasion pattern makes complete surgical extraction very difficult, if not impossible, to perform.

High risk patients, those that had a large tumor and the mesothelioma has spread or metastasized, may find that the benefits of chemotherapy as an adjuvant treatment outweigh the side-effects and can slow or halt the regrowth of cancer cells. The side-effects of chemotherapy are well known and often instill fear in patients causing them to reject the treatment. Improvements have been made in the new chemotherapy drugs, however, and this combined with some adjustments to diet and lifestyle can minimize the effects.

Heather Wakelee, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford Cancer Center, says that adjuvant treatment is typically offered over a period of three months, approximately 8 treatments, and the toxicity level is not as high as neoadjuvant chemotherapy given prior to surgery.

Dr. Wakelee offers the following suggestions for managing your chemotherapy side-effects:

Fatigue. While this is one of the biggest challenges of chemotherapy, it can be managed. Many patients want total rest due to the draining effect, but this can actually increase fatigue. Wakelee suggests patients get some form of exercise every day, walk around some, to help recover your energy.

Low red blood cells or anemia. While blood transfusions are an option to improve this if the count gets too low, a change in diet can help you get the iron you need to raise the count. These foods are all high in iron: red meat, spinach, broccoli, beans, bran, tofu.

Low white blood cells. Infection is a possibility with low white blood cell counts. Doctors are concerned about this in patients although it can be managed. Ways to avoid infection include avoiding raw fish, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables, and washing your hands often.

Nausea/vomiting. Significant improvements have been made in the medicines available to treat nausea, and many patients find they have little to no problems and can eat a normal diet. The patient may take medicines for several days after a treatment and should not be afraid of chemotherapy for this side effect. If there is a problem the doctor can use additional medicines.

Hair loss. Some drugs do not cause hair loss, but they may not be the right drug for the patient. Once chemotherapy treatment is completed the hair often grows back quickly and thicker than before.

Skin rash. This can happen although is not often severe. The use of topical lotions, and potentially with steroids, the rashes can be controlled.

Make sure to discuss your concerns and any side-effects you experience with your mesothelioma specialist so he can make any adjustments to your treatment to minimize any side-effects.

Sources:
Mesothelioma Treatment: What is Chemotherapy?
Understanding Adjuvant Therapy for Early-Stage Lung Cancer

Labels: mesothelioma, Treatment News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 9:34 AM
Link to this article

Combination Treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma Increases Survival Rate

Monday, January 25, 2010

Researchers reported in December that through a combination of surgery and chemotherapy used as a “bath” applied directly to the cancer site, they have improved the survival rate for patients suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure, can affect the lining of the lungs known as pleural mesothelioma, or the lining of the abdomen resulting in peritoneal mesothelioma. In rare instances, the lining of the heart can be affected resulting in pericardial mesothelioma. There is no known cure for the disease.

Researchers at eight medical research universities throughout the world including the U.S., Italy, and Australia, collaborated on the study and reported that of the patients treated for peritoneal mesothelioma, the overall median survival rate was 53 months, and 47 percent of the patients were alive after five years.

After surgery to remove the cancerous tumors from the lining of the abdomen, the doctors then used procedure called hyperthermic interperitoneal chemotherapy. The patient’s abdominal cavity was bathed for several hours in a heated chemotherapy solution to treat remaining cancer cells while the patient was in the operating room.

The researchers said that the improved survival rate could be attributed to the absence of cancer having spread to the lymph nodes, the completeness of the tumor removal and the chemotherapy treatment. The treatment can also help reduce pain associated with mesothelioma.

Source:
Combo Treatment for Mesothelioma in Abdomen Helps Some Patients Live Longer

Labels: mesothelioma, Treatment News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 9:02 AM
Link to this article

Consider Use of TENS for Relief of Mesothelioma Pain

Friday, January 22, 2010

by Nancy Meredith
Mesothelioma is a painful and often debilitating disease for many patients. Pain that is so severe and chronic that it causes a rise in blood pressure and/or pulse rate can effect the survival of a patient. Finding an effective means to manage the pain is important for the overall treatment of a patient with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma, an unusual form of cancer which can take up to five decades to be properly diagnosed, is responsible for approximately 3,000 new cases each year in the United States. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.

Types of Mesothelioma Pain
Mesothelioma tumors are invasive and can grow into nerves and muscles causing excruciating pain. The pain can come on quickly as in acute pain, or it can be continuous and ongoing, as in chronic pain. Pain can also be caused from the treatment regimen as well as any underlying conditions such as arthritis.

Mesothelioma surgery is another source of pain that typically lasts four to six weeks, but will dissipate as you recover from the surgery. Some patients, however, report pain at the incision site that is long lasting and is difficult to eliminate. Typically pain is treated through strong narcotics.

Use of TENS
An alternative to narcotics, is a process called transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation or TENS. TENS lessens pain by sending painless electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin. The electrical signals travel from the TENS unit through wires to the electrodes.

The signal then passes to the nerves under the skin sending messages to the brain describing sensations such as touch, warmth, pressure, and pain. TENS sends tingling sensations that replace the message of pain on these nerves changing your impression of the pain. Thus resulting in temporary relief.

The TENS signals may also increase the amount of endorphins, a pain-relieving chemical made naturally by your body, providing additional relief.

Medical Approval
TENS is an FDA-approved device that may be covered by Medicare. A prescription is required by your physician and will often call for various trials to determine if the treatment is effective for the relief of your mesothelioma-related pain. As with any pain relief, TENS may not be effective for everyone.

A prescription for the device may be either short-term for acute pain or for an extended period of time for managing chronic pain. Work with your mesothelioma specialist to determine for how long a TENS device can be effective for you.

Labels: Featured Story

posted by Nancy Meredith at 9:29 AM
Link to this article

Use World Cancer Day to Raise Awareness of Mesothelioma

Thursday, January 21, 2010

The International Union Against Cancer (UICC) initiated the World Cancer Campaign in 2005 to raise awareness of cancer prevention, and has once again declared February 4, 2010 as a global World Cancer Day. The purpose is to “help raise people’s awareness of cancer and how to prevent, detect or treat it. ” Mesothelioma affects close to 3,000 people in the United States yearly, and almost 20,000 people across the globe die from mesothelioma each year.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer typically affecting the lining of the lungs. Primarily caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers, most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. The latency period can be as long as 50 years.

During World Cancer Day individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations and governments work to educate the general public about the different types of cancer. This year’s campaign is “cancer can be prevented too,” and focuses on educating the public against smoking, sun exposure and other hazards.

When you encounter people on February 4th, raise awareness about mesothelioma with the following statement from the Mesothelioma Applied Resource Foundation website:”thousands of Americans each year are diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Currently is no cure; but there is hope.”

For more information on mesothelioma treatment, support, and resources see MesotheliomaHelp.Net.

Labels: cancer, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:37 AM
Link to this article

Key Mesothelioma Terms to Help with Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Mesothelioma is a rare, serious and aggressive cancer that normally occurs in the lungs and is conclusively linked to exposure to asbestos fibers. Close to 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with the cancer yearly. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.

As with any disease, when you are first diagnosed, the medical jargon can be confusing and can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Understanding your doctor and medical team is critical to ensuring that you are comfortable with your treatment and that you feel you are included when making decisions.

As a reference, following are some key terms that you may hear early in your mesothelioma diagnosis.

Alimta. A chemotherapy drug developed by Eli Lilly specifically for mesothelioma patients.

Extrapleural Pneumonectomy. Surgery to remove a diseased lung, part of the pericardium (membrane covering the heart), part of the diaphragm (muscle between the lungs and the abdomen), and part of the parietal pleura (membrane lining the chest). This type of surgery is used most often to treat malignant mesothelioma.

Latency period. The time between the actual exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma.

Mesothelial cells. Specialized cells that form the mesothelium.

Mesothelium. The protective membrane that surrounds the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, the cavity around the heart, and the internal reproductive organs.

Metastasis. Spread of disease from the original site in the body to other sites.

Palliative Treatment. Therapy that relieves symptoms, such as pain or blockage, but is not expected to cure the cancer. Its main purpose is to improve the patient’s quality of life.

Pericardial Mesothelioma. Cancer of the protective membrane that surrounds the heart. One of the rarest forms of mesothelioma.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma. Cancer of the protective membrane that surrounds the abdomen. The second most diagnosed form of mesothelioma.

Pleura. The thin covering that protects and cushions the lungs. The pleura is made up of two layers of tissue that are separated by a small amount of fluid. The most common site for mesothelioma.

Pleural Effusion. An abnormal collection of fluid between the thin layers of tissue pleura) lining the lung and the wall of the chest cavity.

Pleural Mesothelioma. Cancer of the pleura (membrane lining the lungs and chest cavity). Pleural mesothelioma is different from lung cancer. Lung cancer refers to any type of malignant tumor that originates in the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma effects the pleura.

Resection. Surgical removal of a diseased portion of a tissue.

For more information on mesothelioma and your treatment, order a free copy of “100 Questions & Answers About Mesothelioma.”

Labels: mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 7:52 AM
Link to this article

Mesothelioma Lawsuit Process Described by Belluck & Fox Attorney

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

When someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma they are often faced with disbelief not only for the impact of the disease, but for the fact that most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after their initial exposure to asbestos. Many patients are not even aware of when or where they may have been exposed to asbestos. The latency period for mesothelioma can be as long as 50 years.

In a recent interview, Joseph W. Belluck, a partner in Belluck & Fox LLP, a New York law firm that focuses on representing victims of asbestos-related disease, says,”to be frank, if you have mesothelioma, we know you were exposed to asbestos – it’s just a matter of reverse-engineering your life and figuring out where that exposure occurred.”

Exposure to deadly asbestos fibers most often occurred on-the-job, primarily in construction and general industry workers, but has also been known to be passed on through second-hand exposure through fibers from clothing.

Belluck stresses that mesothelioma is not limited to construction workers. A dentist may have used asbestos-containing material in making castings for fillings, or a jeweler may have used it in crucibles, whereas a lab technician may have been exposed to it through various heating chemicals.

In New York, as a matter of public policy, there is no “statute of repose” that would prevent a person from suing a manufacturer a number of years after the asbestos-containing product was produced. However, a person could lose his or her right to file a mesothelioma lawsuit if action is not initiated within three years of discovering the disease. This is called the “statute of limitations.”

If an individual in New York decides to move forward with a mesothelioma lawsuit, Belluck & Fox will file an individual legal claim on the individuals behalf in a state court and serve a summons on the companies suspected of being responsible.

The companies usually have one month to answer the complaint. The case will then go to “discovery,” which consists of depositions and written exchanges called interrogatories and requests for production. Finally, experts will be brought in to review your case and testify on your behalf.

The process generally takes 7-12 months to complete.

Labels: mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

“Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey” Art Competition and Exhibition Open to Mesothelioma and Cancer Stories Expressed Through Art

Monday, January 18, 2010

Lilly USA, LLC, maker of various chemotherapy drugs including Alimta and Gemzar that are used for the treatment of mesothelioma, is partnering with the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, to invite individuals to “express through art and narrative, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning.”

Oncology On Canvas honors the journeys people face when confronted with a cancer diagnosis. Entries must be postmarked by June 20, 2010. Winners will select a cancer charity of their choice to receive their prize donations.

Following the competition the artwork will be displayed nationwide at cancer centers, hospitals and patient advocacy group events.

Labels: For Your Family

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Get Educated About Mesothelioma Before Determining Your Treatment Plan

Friday, January 15, 2010

Mesothelioma is a rare, serious and aggressive cancer that normally occurs in the lungs and is conclusively linked to exposure to asbestos fibers. This exposure to asbestos fibers typically occurs in the workplace and is sometimes brought home on a worker’s clothes. Mesothelioma has an extended latency period – symptoms can sometimes take between 20-40 years to appear. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.

Determining your treatment plan is critical to your survival, and communicating with your medical team and your mesothelioma specialist is key to ensuring that you understand and are comfortable with the selected plan of action. Prior to meeting with your physician to determine your treatment plan, research mesothelioma and cancer treatments to find as much information as you can to be best prepared to plan your future.

Learn about clinical trials, handling the side effects of chemotherapy treatments, surgical options, nutrition and cancer, and many other topics that can impact your recovery during your struggle with mesothelioma. See CancerCare Connect Education Workshops for a series of podcasts on the above topics, and many more.

When discussing your treatment options, be engaged with your doctor and use the following suggested questions to better understand his/her approach to your treatment.

What type of mesothelioma do I have?

What treatment options are available to me, and which would you recommend?

Why do you recommend this treatment?

What are the side effects and risks with which I should be concerned?

Are there any mesothelioma clinical trials available?

How many specialized mesothelioma treatment cases have you handled in the course of your career?

If you have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you undoubtedly feel overwhelmed with questions. Learning about the medical diagnosis and prognosis, your treatment options, and available support resources can help you feel better about your fight against mesothelioma. Get educated to help you make critical decisions about your treatment.

Labels: mesothelioma, Treatment News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Malignant Mesothelioma – Followup Surgery Relieves Pain

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Italian researchers found that while a second surgery to treat a recurrence of malignant mesothelioma may not increase the survival rate for a patient, the surgery may relieve a patient’s pain. The results were determined after reviewing 74 cases of mesothelioma patients who underwent surgery over 20 years to remove a diseased lung as well the membrane tissue covering the lung and heart, and diaphragm muscle.

The researchers, Dr. Leonardo Politi of the University of Florence, and Dr. Giuseppe Borzelleno of the University of Verona, determined that extrapleural pneumonectomy, the surgical procedure, did not offer the expected curative benefits they had hoped to see when treating a recurrence of malignant mesothelioma. They did say that the procedure should be considered an option for certain malignant mesothelioma patients who cannot tolerate additional radiation treatment.

Source:
Does Follow-up Surgery for Recurring Malignant Mesothelioma Improve Survival?

Labels: mesothelioma, Treatment News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Taking a Positive Attitude After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

by Nancy Meredith
Receiving the tragic news that you have malignant mesothelioma can be devastating and will likely result in upheaval in your life and your family’s life, stress, and the feeling of despair. However, research now confirms what many individuals have been saying, “it was one of the best things that ever happened to me.”

Treatment for mesothelioma can be challenging and difficult, but those patients that look to live their lives to the fullest after a bleak prognosis can experience a spiritual awakening or become aware of their inner strength. The positive attitude and feelings of emotional growth are what researchers call “post-traumatic growth.” While the phenomenon can affect survivors in a variety of ways, those cancer patients that focus on life down-the-road can find a silver lining in their struggle.

Positive Change
Richard G. Tedeschi, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, estimates one-half to two-thirds of cancer survivors come away from their experience with some kind of positive change. Terry Healey who faced a malignant maxillary tumor at 20 years old agrees with Tedeschi. Now 23 years and 20 surgeries later Healey is cancer free and is a motivational speaker and businessman. Healey says he is a much stronger and wiser person because of the cancer.

Tedeschi has found the following positive outcomes are the most common among cancer patients:

A deepened appreciation of life.

Enhanced relationships with others.

An appreciation for personal strength and endurance.

Setting out on new pathways or pursuing new interests and opportunities.

Spiritual growth and development.

A New Outlook
Patricia Mumby, RN, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Loyola University Chicago and director of Loyola’s Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center says that many people often take life for granted. Once someone receives life-altering news such as a diagnosis of mesothelioma, or any other type of cancer, though, people begin questioning their life and look for things that they can change or improve.

Many times roles are reversed when a family member is diagnosed with cancer, the child takes care of the parent, and cancer can help bring families closer together. During treatment, and the cancer journey, family members and friends gain a deep understanding and appreciation for the others that they might not otherwise have seen.

Tim McGraw even wrote a song entitled “Live Like You Were Dying” about the positive changes a man made after being diagnosed with a life-threatening disease, assumingly cancer. The chorus echos what researchers and patients have said:

“And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,”
“And I gave forgiveness I’d been denying.”
An’ he said: “Some day, I hope you get the chance,”
“To live like you were dyin’.”

Fight Fearful Thoughts
Not everyone will leave their cancer experience feeling like a new person or excited about the prospects of life, but they can still avoid the feelings of despair by avoiding fearful thoughts. Healey discovered during his cancer journey that “we can all face our challenges, but we need to focus on the most pressing issues, so we don’t get overwhelmed with all that we want to improve about ourselves.”

Fighting mesothelioma is agonizing and even the most positive of patients will have days when they are despondent. According to Mumby finding a silver lining as you struggle with cancer does not have to be all-or-nothing. Mumby says, “people can be feeling the stress of the cancer at the same time that they are able to find something positive,” she says. “It’s often a matter of degree.

Sources:
Beyond Face Value
Cancer’s Silver Lining
Mesothelioma Support & Help

Labels: Featured Story

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Lung Cancer Advocacy Summit Announced

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

The National Lung Cancer Partnership announced today that they will host the 3rd Lung Cancer Advocacy Summit: Tools for Change from April 22 – 25, 2010 in Tampa, FL.

According to the summit flyer, the goal of the Lung Cancer Advocacy Summit is to empower advocates by providing them with training, resources, knowledge and courage to go back to their communities and take action. The Summit will include teaching workshops, interactive sessions, networking and small group discussions.

Attendance for the conference is limited to 80 “grassroots” lung cancer advocates. To apply as an attendee submit a completed application by February 15. Accepted participants will receive three nights of paid hotel accommodations. Participants may also apply for a limited number of scholarships of up to $500 to cover transportation expenses.

National Lung Cancer Partnership is a non-profit organization dedicated to decreasing deaths due to lung cancer, and helping patients live longer and better. Their primary goal is to advance lung cancer treatments for all patients.

Pleural Mesothelioma is a form of lung cancer. While pleural mesothelioma is not classified as a lung cancer according to the medical defintion, the treatments between lung cancer and mesothelioma are often similar, and raising awareness for mesothelioma is critical. Whereas lung cancer occurs when lung tissue develops cancerous growths, mesothelioma develops in the serous membranes surrounding the lungs.

Labels: cancer, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Explanation of Types of Mesothelioma

Monday, January 11, 2010

Mesothelioma is a serious cancer that occurs in individuals exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. Even small amounts of asbestos and infrequent exposure can create a risk for contracting mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. The latency period can be as long as 50 years.

The form of mesothelioma for which a patient is diagnosed is identified according to the body organ in which the tumor begins, known as its origin site. When mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs it is known as pleural mesothelioma; when the lining of the abdomen is impacted it results in peritoneal mesothelioma. In rare instances, the lining of the heart can be affected resulting in pericardial mesothelioma.

Besides the location in which the tumors form, the other identifying factor in the diagnosis of mesothelioma is the histological subtype of the cancer. In terms of the histology of cells, there are three main types of mesothelioma:

Epithelial type. The epithelial type accounts for 50% to 70% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma. It is the most common and treatable histological subtype of mesotheliomas. Patients with this diagnosis have the best chance of recovery due to its slower growth and ability to respond to treatment.

Sarcoma type. The sarcoma type accounts for 7% to 20% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma and is the least common. Additionally, sarcoma mesothelioma has the worst prognosis, because it does not respond nearly as well to treatment as do the other two histological types.

Mixed or Biphasic type. The mixed type accounts for 20% to 35% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Biphasic describes a condition in which mesothelioma is comprised of both epitheloid and sarcomatoid cancer cells.

Each of the three cellular forms of mesothelioma are often treated in the same way. The medical team will determine the treatment of mesothelioma depending on the size and location of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread, and the patient’s overall health. For mesothelioma, the three primary types of treatment are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Sources:
Cancer.net
MesotheliomaHelp.net

Labels: diagnosis, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Spotlight on The University of Chicago Cancer Research Center Mesothelioma Program

Friday, January 8, 2010

by Nancy Meredith
With a goal “to identify and develop treatment regimens to improve the quality of our patients’ lives and to eradicate mesothelioma as a life-threatening disease,” doctors and researchers at the University of Chicago Mesothelioma Program are pioneers in the research and treatment of malignant mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma, an unusual form of cancer known to be caused by asbestos exposure, can take up to five decades to be properly diagnosed and is responsible for approximately 3,000 new cases of cancer each year in the United States. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.

The mesothelioma program at Chicago is able to offer patients specialized treatment based on the specific characteristics of their disease. Staffed with oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and imaging specialists, the program focuses on a team approach when treating the patients, and the staff members attend weekly meetings to stay apprised of any changes in cases or in research.

Through their comprehensive and multidisciplinary focus the center has developed many different treatment options and can tailor the right treatment to each mesothelioma patient. The program conducts clinical trials in collaboration wtih the National Cancer Institute, and has a priority of testing new and novel approaches for the treatment of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Program Doctors:

Hedy Kindler, MD

Ravi Salgia, MD, PhD

Aliya Husain, MD

Samuel Armato, PhD

Phillip Connell, MD

Heber MacMahon, MD

Jai Raman, MD

The information on the University’s website was developed through encouragement and assistance by a mesothelioma patient. The information covers basic and detailed information about mesothelioma, information about approved drugs as well as drugs within clinical trials, and treatment options.

Labels: mesothelioma, treatments

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

NY Personal Injury Attorney Urges City to Keep Reducing Asbestos Exposure, Known to Cause Mesothelioma

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Attorney Joseph W. Belluck of Belluck & Fox LLP says overhaul of NYC asbestos abatement program marks progress, but more safeguards needed

New York, NY January 6, 2010 — New York City needs to continue reducing the risk of exposure to cancer-causing asbestos until it is non-existent, a New York attorney said.

Attorney Joseph W. Belluck, a partner in Belluck & Fox LLP, a New York law firm that focuses on representing victims of asbestos-related disease, praised a package of legislation passed by the New York City Council that overhauls the city’s asbestos abatement procedures. Belluck said the new laws represent an improvement in construction safety standards.

“The City should continue to adopt measures similar to this until there is zero asbestos exposure to firefighters, construction workers and residents of New York,” Belluck said.

The legislation, signed into law last month by New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, established a permit program for asbestos abatement activities, enhanced asbestos cleanup safeguards, prohibited smoking in any part of a building where asbestos abatement is occurring and barred simultaneous asbestos abatement and demolition activities in the same building.

All asbestos fibers must be carefully contained and removed before a building is demolished because asbestos dust, if stirred up, can be inhaled and cause serious respiratory disease including mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of lungs or abdomen.

The package of legislative measures stemmed from a review panel’s recommendations after a fire at the former Deutsche Bank tower in August 2007 left two New York City firefighters dead. Workers were removing asbestos from the building and demolishing it floor by floor when the fire occurred. A construction worker’s cigarette ignited the blaze. The simultaneous abatement and demolition activities in the building hampered firefighters’ efforts to fight the blaze.

Asbestos use is no longer prevalent, but houses and buildings in New York and throughout the U.S. still have large amounts of asbestos materials and insulation that will eventually have to be removed. Health officials estimate that 1.3 million construction and general industry workers are exposed to asbestos and one of the most common ways is during asbestos removal activities if the dangerous substance is not handled properly.

Labels: asbestos, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Re-seeding Tumors Could Explain Difficulty in Treating Mesothelioma and Other Cancers

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

by Nancy Meredith
Joan Massague, PhD, Chairman of the Sloan-Kettering Institute’s Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, and colleagues, published their findings that tumors can send out tiny cells called seeds spreading cancer throughout the body. They also report that the tumors can re-seed themselves even after being removed through surgery.

Mesothelioma, an unusual form of cancer caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers, often has a complex growth pattern making complete surgical removal a very difficult task. Depending on the stage of malignant mesothelioma the medical team can take a curative surgical approach to remove as much of the malignancy as possible. The goal of the surgery is to achieve a macroscopically-complete resection, which refers to the removal of all visible tumor cells.

Microscopic cancer cells that are hidden or are too small to be seen during surgery or post-operative analysis, but which are alive and still able to grow, can then be treated post-surgically through radiation and/or chemotherapy. There is no known cure for mesothelioma, and even with a trimodal treatment approach, the cancer cells often reappear.

The findings by Massague and his colleagues, however, could provide insight into the inability to successfully kill cancer cells. The researchers found that tumors can “recapture some of their most delinquent children” thus enabling them to grow faster. Massague states that “in some cases, maybe treatment left inflamed tissue that had been a home for those cells that escaped and were residing somewhere temporarily, perhaps in the bone marrow.”

The cancerous cells then re-enter the circulation system, even months after surgery, and through the self-seeding process, attach to the tissue and reproduce a tumor. In the case of mesothelioma, if the cancer cells recur, the medical team would then determine the next line of treatment.

The researchers hope that their findings will lead to the development of new drugs that can stop cancer metastasis. They will explore “targeted therapies that may interfere with the self-seeding process and perhaps slow or even prevent tumor progression.”

Sources:
Tumor Progression through Self-Seeding
Re-seeding Tumors

Labels: Featured Story

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Facts about Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Below are more important facts about mesothelioma and asbestos.

Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. The latency period can be as long as 50 years.

The number of cases of mesothelioma will peak in the United States in 2010, according to researchers at the Centers for Disease Control.

About 2,500 to 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States.

Asbestos is no longer mined in the United States, but it is still imported and used in construction and automotive products. Large quantities of asbestos remain in buildings that will eventually have to be removed.

Doctors have diagnosed asbestos-related disease in family members of miners and other asbestos workers who brought home asbestos dust on their clothing. This type of “second-hand” exposure to asbestos is known as para-occupational exposure.

About 90,000 people die each year around the world due to asbestos exposure, the World Health Organization estimates.

Labels: asbestos, mesothelioma

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article

Looking Back at 2009 Mesothelioma News

Friday, January 1, 2010

As 2010 begins it’s time to look back at some of the successes and advances made in 2009 towards mesothelioma research and treatment. Mesothelioma, an unusual form of cancer which can take up to five decades to be properly diagnosed, is responsible for approximately 3,000 new cases each year in the United States. Currently, there is no known cure for mesothelioma.

However, progress was made in 2009, and here are the 2009 news stories from Mesotheliomahelp.net showing the steps made towards improving the lives of mesothelioma patients.

New Diagnostic Test for Mesothelioma

Dynamic Imaging Improves Patient Outcomes in Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer Treatment

Mesothelioma Tissue Banks Offer Researchers a Place to Turn for Pathology Data and Tissue Samples

$2.25 Million Awarded in Mesothelioma Death

U.S. and China Companies Join Forces in Manufacturing Drug for Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma

Wake Forest School of Medicine and FirstHealth of the Carolinas Partner for Mesothelioma Study

Texas Cancer Center Offers Hope to Mesothelioma Patients

Earlier Detection of Mesothelioma Possible from Telltale Protein, Researchers Say

Happy 2010, and here’s to reading about more breakthroughs in mesothelioma treatments in the coming year.

Labels: mesothelioma, Research News

posted by Nancy Meredith at 8:00 AM
Link to this article