Mesothelioma
What is Mesothelioma?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the thin layer of cells lining the body's internal organs, known as the mesothelium. There are three recognized types of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the disease, accounting for roughly 70% of cases, and occurs in the lining of the lung known as the pleura. Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum and pericardial mesothelioma originates in the pericardium, which lines the heart.
Who is at risk for Mesothelioma?
The only recognized cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, though other factors such as smoking can make mesothelioma more or less likely in some individuals. Industrial laborers were widely subjected to asbestos exposure on the job, as the material was widely used throughout the 20th century. Few of these workers knew they were being exposed to asbestos and thus put at risk for mesothelioma, however, despite the fact that many manufacturers were aware the material was hazardous. In most cases, mesothelioma symptoms will not appear in an individual exposed to asbestos until many years after the exposure has occurred. Those who believe they may have been exposed to asbestos are at risk for mesothelioma and should fill out our form to receive a free mesothelioma information packet, detailing treatment options, emerging therapies, and jobsite exposure information.
Mesothelioma Treatment
Once an individual has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the next step is to discuss mesothelioma treatment options with his/her physician. Recent scientific research has produced significant breakthroughs with regard to treatment protocols for mesothelioma patients and more options are now available for managing mesothelioma and supporting improved quality of life. Newly diagnosed mesothelioma patients always have many questions about the treatment options that would be most effective for them, including those about new treatment therapies like Alimta® and Cisplatin and other chemotherapy drugs. In addition to these newer drugs that are being used to treat asbestos cancer, mesothelioma patients also have a number of "conventional" treatment options to consider, including mesothelioma chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.
Mesothelioma clinical trials and experimental treatments are still other options that some mesothelioma patients may be eligible to participate in. Our site features a comprehensive mesothelioma cancer treatment section that includes important information for patients and families. We've included resources on top mesothelioma doctors such as Dr. Sugarbaker, as well as a comprehensive list of questions that you may wish to discuss with your personal physician when preparing a mesothelioma treatment plan. We are always providing new and informative resources regarding mesothelioma treatment including: Clinical Trials, conventional treatments, experimental therapies, as well as alternative mesothelioma treatment options. Check back often for the most recent advances in mesothelioma treatments.
David Rice, M.D., Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Dr. David Rice is an Associate Professor and Assistant Surgeon at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center where he serves as the director of the Minimally Invasive Surgery and Mesothelioma programs.
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the single known cause of mesothelioma. Inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers may cause an inflammation of internal tissue and disrupt organ function which leads to the development of mesothelioma. Asbestos products were used extensively throughout the 20th century in a wide variety of applications. Many of these products were responsible for asbestos exposure sustained by both the individuals who manufactured the products as well as those who used them at commercial and industrial jobsites including shipyards, refineries, power plants, steel plants and more. Several asbestos companies continued to produce these products even after they were known to be hazardous and harmful to workers and their families. Those who have become sick with mesothelioma because of exposure to these products may now be eligible for financial compensation if they were wrongfully exposed.
Asbestos was also used at many New York jobsites including Ground Zero and the former World Trade Center site. Common asbestos exposure sites in New York include the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Todd Shipyard, and the Con Edison power plant in New York City.
VA sending letters to beneficiaries of military members
The Dept. of Veterans Affairs has confirmed that it has sent 10,000 letters to the beneficiaries of military members with life insurance policies in an effort to clear up confusion surrounding a number of issues, including death benefits provided through what is called an “Alliance Account.”... Read More
Veteran Support
Although rare, mesothelioma affects veterans from all branches of service. Navy veterans who worked in navy shipyards and or served on our nation's warships and submarine's from WWII through the Vietnam War were exposed to high concentrations of deadly asbestos and are at a high risk for developing mesothelioma. Boiler rooms, engine rooms, sleeping quarters, and other areas of naval vessels were the most common areas where asbestos was present. As a result, Navy veterans are at a greater risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma navy cases are among the most common and thus any veteran exposed to asbestos should fill out the brief form on this page to receive a free mesothelioma and asbestos exposure information kit. Support systems are in place to make sure you receive the assistance you deserve.
News Alerts
Asbestos found in seven Virginia Beach schools
Asbestos containing wall sealant has yet to pose a health risk to students in seven Virginia Beach schools.
Richardson Olmsted complex to be rehabilitated following asbestos removal
Following asbestos abatement work as well as other renovations, the former mental hospital will be converted into a tourist attraction.
Pipe burst raises asbestos concerns
Crews are working to repair a steam pipe in Boston, after it burst Wednesday, spurring asbestos exposure worries.
