History of Mesothelioma

The history of mesothelioma started in the early 1900s. Mesothelioma history, just as in the discoveries of other major diseases, has a combination of science, politics, medical research and courage. Mesothelioma is a deadly disease that affects the lining of several organs in the body, most commonly the lungs. It is now known that asbestos exposure is the primary cause for this disease; however, for more than 100 years of asbestos mining and production, the link between asbestos and mesothelioma remained obscured.

Lung Disease and Asbestos

In the early 1900s workers at asbestos factories in Britain were experiencing an alarmingly high incidence rate of lung disease. The first reported case of asbestosis in a British asbestos worker occurred in 1906. By the late 1920s, the lung disease problems associated with asbestos mining and production were becoming well known, so much so that the British government commissioned a study in 1930. The study results showed that asbestosis was an occupational disease and was associated with asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

The link between lung cancer and asbestos was slower to emerge. While many asbestos workers were dying of lung cancer in the 1930s and 1940s, there was also high growth rate of tobacco use and a high incidence of tuberculosis. Unless an autopsy was performed, it was difficult to determine the exact type of lung cancer that caused death. During this time period, it appears that the asbestos industry officials made little effort to establish the link between asbestos and mesothelioma, even though considerable evidence suggested this link.

The South African Asbestos Mines

After World War II, asbestos mining in South Africa was growing rapidly. South Africa had plenty of cheap labor, and new technology was making asbestos mining much more efficient. Although a well known South African medical researcher noted in 1928 that asbestos exposure could cause danger, he attributed the dangers to asbestos processing, not mining. (South Africa did little processing of asbestos at that time.)

In 1948, South Africa commissioned the firs

History of Mesothelioma

The history of mesothelioma started in the early 1900s. Mesothelioma history, just as in the discoveries of other major diseases, has a combination of science, politics, medical research and courage. Mesothelioma is a deadly disease that affects the lining of several organs in the body, most commonly the lungs. It is now known that asbestos exposure is the primary cause for this disease; however, for more than 100 years of asbestos mining and production, the link between asbestos and mesothelioma remained obscured.

Lung Disease and Asbestos

In the early 1900s workers at asbestos factories in Britain were experiencing an alarmingly high incidence rate of lung disease. The first reported case of asbestosis in a British asbestos worker occurred in 1906. By the late 1920s, the lung disease problems associated with asbestos mining and production were becoming well known, so much so that the British government commissioned a study in 1930. The study results showed that asbestosis was an occupational disease and was associated with asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

The link between lung cancer and asbestos was slower to emerge. While many asbestos workers were dying of lung cancer in the 1930s and 1940s, there was also high growth rate of tobacco use and a high incidence of tuberculosis. Unless an autopsy was performed, it was difficult to determine the exact type of lung cancer that caused death. During this time period, it appears that the asbestos industry officials made little effort to establish the link between asbestos and mesothelioma, even though considerable evidence suggested this link.

The South African Asbestos Mines

After World War II, asbestos mining in South Africa was growing rapidly. South Africa had plenty of cheap labor, and new technology was making asbestos mining much more efficient. Although a well known South African medical researcher noted in 1928 that asbestos exposure could cause danger, he attributed the dangers to asbestos processing, not mining. (South Africa did little processing of asbestos at that time.)

In 1948, South Africa commissioned the firs

Asbestos and Mesothelioma Awareness Programs

Asbestos exposure is one of the leading causes of work-related fatalities in the industrialized world, and deaths linked to asbestos exposure continue to rise globally. In the United States alone, asbestos-related deaths have increased 400 percent in the past 20 years. In response to this alarming trend, several organizations have in recent years launched asbestos and mesothelioma awareness campaigns to educate people about the catastrophic effects of asbestos exposure and provide them with ways to reduce their risk of developing mesothelioma. These programs play an extremely important role because usually mesothelioma symptoms first appear many years after the exposure took place.

The Hidden Killer Campaign

In October 2008, the United Kingdom's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched a national campaign, "Asbestos: The Hidden Killer," in an attempt to increase public awareness of asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma. The campaign, which lasts through November, is a multimedia program that will educate tradesmen about the prevalence of asbestos in construction jobs, as well as its adverse health effects. It is fully supported by the Federation of Master Builders, who is hosting its own educational workshops for workers at risk for exposure. Renowned soccer player Ian Wright will serve as the spokesman for The Hidden Killer campaign.

Almost 4,000 people die each year in the U.K. due to asbestos-related diseases. This accounts for almost 20 tradesmen deaths each week. Many of these fatalities are attributable to insufficient education about asbestos exposure, a problem highlighted by the fact that only 10 percent of tradesmen are aware of asbestos' deadly effects. Even those who know of the dangers often underestimate the pervasiveness of asbestos in their environments. Because asbestos was not banned in the U.K. until 1999, buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000 may contain asbestos, leaving an estimated 500,000 non-domestic buildings at risk.

For more information, please visit the HSE's website devoted to the Hidden Killer Campaign.

Other Asbestos Awareness Campaigns

Numerous other organizations have developed their own asbestos and mesothelioma awareness campaigns to address this tragic epidemic. The Australian Council of Trade Unions launched "National Asbestos Awareness Week" and "National Asbestos Awareness Day" to address the spate of mesothelioma cases in Australia, which now has the highest per capita incidence of mesothelioma in the world. Held annually at the end of November, the National Asbestos Awareness campaign includes memorial services, lectures and fund-raising events.

Several foundations in the United States have started their own awareness programs, including "Meso Awareness Day," which in 2007 raised more than $4 million for mesothelioma research and mesothelioma treatment . More than 20 million people have experienced toxic exposure to asbestos and are at risk for developing mesothelioma in the U.S.

In 2007, the County of San Diego, California received an Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties for its Asbestos Awareness Campaign. The continuing campaign attempts to address the risks posed by asbestos to builders, homeowners and workers in the San Diego area, covering the health effects of asbestos exposure, how to identify asbestos, safe handling and asbestos-related laws and regulations.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to aggressive, and often fatal, diseases such as asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma. Many victims develop mesothelioma after years of asbestos exposure due to negligent companies. Mesothelioma lawyers can help victims receive mesothelioma compensation for expensive medical bills, as well as pain and suffering. To review your case on an individual basis, contact a qualified mesothelioma lawyer today.

See Also:
» Key Statistics
» Causes of Mesothelioma
» History of Mesothelioma

[Page updated February 2008]

Mesothelioma Statistics

Continued from: Mesothelioma Background

On this page:
» Mortality Statistics
» Exposure Statistics

Approximately 2000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Internationally, the incidence is approximately nine cases per every 1 million persons.

In the fall of 2004, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported a surge in deaths related to asbestos exposure. Even though the use of asbestos has fallen dramatically over the last several decades, the number of asbestos related deaths are rising.

Mortality

This death rate is expected to continue to increase for at least the next decade, according to statistics developed in a report from the CDC. Asbestosis, which is caused by the inhalation of asbestos, can cause fibrous growths of scar tissue in the lung, and ultimately lead to the inability of the patient to breath. Deaths from asbestosis increased from a recorded 77 in 1986 to 1,493 in 2000. This disease, which is characterized by shortness of breath and incessant cough, and which is linked to a higher risk of mesothelioma, now causes more occupational related deaths than silicosis and black lung disease. It is the deadliest of all work-related respiratory illnesses.

The CDC’s assertion that the death toll may continue to rise, despite the reduced use of asbestos, is based on the time lag between initial exposure to asbestos, the development of asbestosis and death. This time lag can be as long as 45 years. In 1998, asbestosis overtook black lung disease as the top killer among work-related respiratory diseases, partially because of the decline in coal mining and partially due to the fact that the incubation period was giving way to the formation of asbestosis among many asbestos workers.

The CDC reached these conclusions by inspecting the death certificates of over 125,000 people who had lung conditions linked to inhaling dust or fibers from minerals such as coal, asbestos and sand.

The median survival for patients with malignant mesothelioma is 11 months. It is almost always fatal. The survival rate depends on the type of mesothelioma. Sarcomatoid cancer is the most aggressive with a median survival rate of approximately 9.4 months. Epithelioid cancer and biphasic cancer (or mixed) have somewhat longer survival rates at 12.5 and 11 months, respectively.

Malignant mesothelioma is not linked to race or gender, as asbestos exposure is thought to be the most important risk factor. Asbestos exposure is directly linked to at least 50 percent of mesothelioma cases.

Asbestos Exposure

Approximately 8 million people in the U.S. have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Family members who have been exposed through residual asbestos dust from work clothing are also at risk. The risk of developing lung cancer is five times greater for those exposed to asbestos. For those who smoke and have had exposure to asbestos, the chance of developing mesothelioma is 55 times greater than normal.

Studies show that mesothelioma is three times more common in men than women, but this is thought to be due to asbestos exposure and not gender. Of men with mesothelioma, a case series study showed that 45 percent had a history of exposure to asbestos and 53 percent had occupational exposure to asbestos. Most of the men were railroad workers, construction workers, naval mechanics and automobile mechanics.

Malignant mesothelioma has a peak incidence about 40 years after asbestos exposure, and it commonly develops when a person is between 50 and 70 years of age.

See Also:
» Mesothelioma Awareness Programs
» Causes of Mesothelioma
» History of Mesothelioma

[Page updated February 2008]

Mesothelioma Treatment

Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and a combination of these methods. The treatment recommended by the healthcare provider will depend on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer cells, and the person's general health. Treatment for mesothelioma generally begins a few weeks after diagnosis, so there often is time to get a second opinion

Treating Mesothelioma: An Overview

Remembering Questions and Answers

Getting a Second Opinion

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Side Effects of Treatment for Mesothelioma

Nutrition and Mesothelioma Treatment

Clinical Trials

The Importance of Follow-up Care When Treating Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Treatment Option

• Mesothelioma Treatment
• Mesothelioma Treatment by Stage
• Mesothelioma Surgery
• Mesothelioma Chemotherapy
• Mesothelioma Radiation
• Mesothelioma Pain
• Alternative Mesothelioma Treatment
• Mesothelioma Survival Rate

Treating Mesothelioma: An Overview

There are several different mesothelioma treatment options available for someone diagnosed with the disease.

Some factors that may influence the treatment options recommended include:

• The stage of the cancer (see Mesothelioma Stages)
• The type of cancer cells (how they look under a microscope)
• The person's age and general health
• Whether the mesothelioma is newly diagnosed or has come back (recurred).

In general, treatment options for mesothelioma include:

• Surgery (see Mesothelioma Surgery)
• Chemotherapy (see Mesothelioma Chemotherapy)
• Radiation therapy (see Mesothelioma Radiation).

Your doctor can describe your treatment choices and the expected results of each. The two of you can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.

Mesothelioma treatment generally begins within a few weeks after the diagnosis. There will be time for people to talk with their healthcare provider about treatment choices, get a second opinion, and learn more about the disease.

(Mesothelioma Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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About Mesothelioma

Welcome to the Mesothelioma by eMedTV. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer affecting the mesothelium, which is a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura (lining around the lungs) or peritoneum (the lining around the abdomen). It is typically caused by asbestos exposure. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 to 80 percent of all cases of mesothelioma. Standard treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma differ based on the location of the cancer. Pleural mesothelioma symptoms are usually due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura and include shortness of breath and pain in the chest or under the ribcage. Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms may include weight loss, lumps in the abdomen, abdominal pain, and abdominal swelling due to a buildup of fluid.

Sometimes mesothelioma symptoms will not appear until 30 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos.

What Are the Stages of Mesothelioma?

Staging information is used to determine the extent of the mesothelioma and whether it has spread. There are two categories of mesothelioma stages: localized and advanced.

In stage I (localized) mesothelioma is found in the lining of the chest wall and may also be found in the lining of the lung, the lining of the diaphragm, or the lining of the sac that covers the heart on the same side of the chest. Advanced mesothelioma includes stage II, stage III, and stage IV. Doctors use chest x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs in mesothelioma staging.

How Is Mesothelioma Treated?

Treatment options for patients with mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. If the mesothelioma is in one part of the chest lining, treatment will probably involve surgery to remove the part of the chest lining with cancer and some of the tissue around it.

Surgical treatment options may include wide local excision, pleurectomy and decortication, extrapleural pneumonectomy, and pleurodesis.

What Are the Survival Rates for Mesothelioma?

The relative survival rate measures the survival of mesothelioma patients in comparison to the general population to estimate the effect of cancer. The overall 5-year relative mesothelioma survival rate for 1998-2002 was around 9 percent.

Below are the relative survival rates for each year following a mesothelioma diagnosis:

• Year 1 survival rate: 39 percent
• Year 2 survival rate: 20 percent
• Year 3 survival rate: 11 percent
• Year 4 survival rate: 10 percent
• Year 5 survival rate: 9 percent.

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Mesotheleoma

Were you looking for information about Mesothelioma? Mesotheleoma is a common misspelling of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the membrane that covers most of the body's internal organs, is diagnosed in 2,000 people each year in the United States. The tumor, which can be benign or malignant, typically begins in the lining around either the abdomen (stomach) or the lungs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for this form of cancer. Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the tumor and stage of disease, and may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.

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Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma Treatments

There are several mesothelioma treatment options including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

There are several types of treatment available for patients with mesothelioma, some recommended more frequently than others. The most commonly used treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In addition, some experimental treatments are becoming more widely used, or are showing some encouraging results in clinical trials. These treatments include photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy, among others.

Most of these treatments are not used in isolation. In many cases, treatment may consist of a combination of therapies. For example, surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible may be followed by radiotherapy or chemotherapy to remove residual cancer cells. This is one of the most common treatment options for mesothelioma among those who are candidates for surgery.

A number of alternative therapies can also be combined with traditional treatment options. Many patients choose to add alternative therapies such as massage, acupuncture, or TENS therapy to their conventional treatment approach in an effort to enhance or compliment the treatment process. A variety of alternative therapies, including aromatherapy, meditation, or yoga, are often added to a treatment regimen to provide pain relief and foster relaxation.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma it is likely you’re interested in the various treatment options available. Working with your doctor to create the best treatment plan is an important step. Knowing what the treatment plan will do to help treat the cancer often helps patients and their families understand the process and feel more comfortable. We offer a complimentary informative packet that includes all the information on our Web site and additional information about available treatment options that you may take with you continually educate yourself and those around you about mesothelioma. Click here to receive your packet overnight.

Mesothelioma Cure

Mesothelioma is regarded as a highly aggressive cancer, as this disease is exceptionally resistant to current treatment methods. Though a number of treatments are available to mesothelioma patients, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, these options are known to only offer palliative relief - not a cure.

5-Year Survival Rates for Mesothelioma.

A number of scientific studies and clinical trials have worked tirelessly to find a cure for mesothelioma to no avail. Those versed in the politics of cancer research posit that since mesothelioma is such a rare cancer, little financial funding has been allotted to support the search for a cure. Hence, the hope for a mesothelioma cure is undeniably reliant upon increased funding to support research efforts.

Thankfully, the general public is becoming increasingly aware of mesothelioma. As more people and specific interest groups recognize the critical need to support research for a mesothelioma cure, funding will undoubtedly increase and this cancer may start to receive financial support that contends with the nation's most recognized forms of cancer. Once adequate funding for research becomes available, the hope for a cure will become a more tangible reality to mesothelioma sufferers across the globe.

Surgery

Surgical treatments for mesothelioma include three main types - diagnostic surgery, curative surgery, and palliative surgery. Some types of surgery fall into more than one category.

Surgery can only be performed during mesothelioma stages I and II.

For example, thoracentesis may be used as a diagnostic procedure, and as a palliative treatment to provide symptomatic relief. Only curative surgery can potentially remove all cancer from a patient with mesothelioma.

However, for curative surgery to be effective, it is particularly important that mesothelioma be diagnosed as early as possible. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is not usually diagnosed until it reaches Stage III or IV, when surgery is not an option.

Chemotherapy

Most forms of chemotherapy involve the intravenous administration of drugs such as Alimta and Cisplatin. Chemotherapeutic drugs are targeted to kill cells that are rapidly dividing by interfering with processes that occur during cell division.

Chemotherapy is an effective treatment option but comes with unpleasant side effects.

However, while cancer cells themselves divide rapidly, so do some types of healthy cells, causing some of the unpleasant side effects that are often associated with this form of treatment. Though older chemotherapy medications seemed to do little to fight mesothelioma, newer chemotherapy drugs are showing much promise.

A relatively new form of chemotherapy called heated chemotherapy is an option for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma.

This treatment is carried out following surgery, and involves the perfusion of heated chemotherapeutic medications into the peritoneum.

Radiation

Radiation therapy, or "ionizing radiation", is used to kill cancer cells and to limit the spread of cancer. For patients with mesothelioma, radiation therapy is most often used in conjunction with surgery.

Radiation is often used in conjunction with surgery.

However, in some cases radiation may be used as a stand-alone treatment to relieve pain and other symptoms associated with mesothelioma. In either case, it is rare for radiation therapy to provide more than short-term symptomatic relief.

Mesothelioma patients may receive one of two types of radiation therapies, depending on whether or not they are suitable candidates for either procedure.

External beam radiation therapy is the traditional type of radiation therapy, where tumors are bombarded with beams of radiation to kill cancer cells. Brachytherapy is a newer type of radiation treatment. It involves tiny radioactive rods which are implanted within a tumor to provide a strong, concentrated dose of radiation to tumors while doing very little damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a highly specialized and specific form of treatment that is most often used to treat skin cancers, some types of lung cancer, and pleural mesothelioma.

Photodynamic therapy uses light energy to kill cancer cells.

However, this treatment is usually unsuitable for patients with metastasized cancer; it is most effective in patients who have localized disease.

This type of therapy involves the use of light energy to kill cancer cells. In photodynamic therapy treatment, the patient is given an intravenous solution of a medication that makes cancer cells highly sensitive to a particular kind of light.

One to three days after this treatment, the patient is exposed to the light, and cancer cells that have absorbed the medication are killed.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy involves using genetic material to specifically target cancer cells and make them more vulnerable to chemotherapy treatment.

"Suicide Gene Therapy" is the most popular form of gene thearpy being used.

The main type of gene therapy being developed for use in mesothelioma patients is called "suicide gene therapy," because it forces cancer cells to produce substances that cause their death.

When undergoing this type of gene therapy, the patient is treated with a non-infectious virus that has been altered with genetic material that makes them produce a particular protein.

Following this procedure, the patient is then treated with a chemotherapeutic medication that is specially formulated to be toxic only to cancer cells. This type of therapy has produced some promising results for mesothelioma patients, but it is still only available through clinical trials.

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment in which the patient's own immune system is 'tricked' into killing cancer cells. A healthy, normally-functioning immune system does not kill cancer cells, because even though these are diseased cells, the immune system is unable to recognize them as being harmful.

There are two main types of immunotherapy: active and passive. In active immunotherapy, mesothelioma cancer cells are removed from a patient and then treated in a laboratory to turn them into a vaccine. Following this laboratory treatment, the patient is injected with the vaccine and if the treatment is successful, the patient's immune system recognizes the vaccine as a harmful substance, thus recognizing the cancer as being harmful as well.

Passive immunotherapy is somewhat different in that it does not attempt to activate the patient's immune system. Instead, it uses substances such as cytokines (molecules that direct and regulate the immune system) and other agents to help boost the patient's immune response to their cancer.

The resources at Asbestos.com are here to serve and benefit those affected by asbestos exposure. One of the site's main goals is to provide help and assistance to those coping with asbestos-related disease, and this includes informative materials that can be mailed directly to you.

To learn even more about the range of treatment options available to mesothelioma patients, please fill out the form on the right to receive a comprehensive information packet. You can also call 800-615-2270 with any questions or concerns - our well-informed staff is ready and eager to offer assistance on a wide range of relating issues.

Additional Resources

We provide extensive resources to educate and benefit those affected by asbestos exposure. One of our main goals is to provide help and assistance to those coping with asbestos-related disease, and we offer a complimentary comprehensive packet that can be mailed directly to you overnight. The packet allows you to take our Web site and additional educational information with you to share with your family wherever you go.

To learn more about the range of treatment options available to mesothelioma patients, please fill out this form to receive your packet. Our Patient and Family Advocates are also happy to answer any questions or address concerns you may have over the phone. To speak with an educated representative, please call 800-615-2270.

Sources:

1. Dodson, R. and Hammar, S. Asbestos: Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, and Health Effects. Taylor & Francis: Boca Raton. 2006.
2. Galateau-Salle, Francoise. Pathology of Malignant Mesothelioma. Springer-Verlag London Limited: London. 2006.
3. Pass, I., Vogelzang, N., Carbone, M. Malignant Mesothelioma: Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Transitional Therapies. Springer: New York. 2005.
4. http://www.cancer.org/downloads/PUB/DOCS/SECTION28/89.pdf
5. http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genome/medicine/genetherapy.shtml
6. http://marf.org/Documents/SymSlides/Steven%20Albelda,%20MD%20WM.pdf
7. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Therapy/photodynamic
8. http://www.drugs.com/mtm/gemcitabine.html
9. http://www.drugs.com/mtm/navelbine.html

Mesothelioma News

• Mesothelioma Patient Gambles on Life and Wins Big
  2009-04-23 - A mesothelioma patient bet bookmakers $145 that he would live longer than doctor's predicted. Buckinghamshire, England resident Jon Mathews could collect nearly $51,000 if he continues to win his b ...
  Read More
• Mesothelioma Diagnostic Test Rights Granted to Pharmaceutical Company
  2009-04-16 - Rosetta Genomics, a molecular diagnostics company announced a license and collaboration agreement April 16, 2009 with Prometheus Laboratories Inc., granting the pharmaceutical and diagnostic company r ...
  Read More
• Early Detection of Mesothelioma Through New Radiography Approach
  2009-03-31 - A recent announcement at Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization's annual conference provided insight into a new method for diagnosing asbestos-related diseases. Michael Harbut, co-director of the Nat ...
  Read More

Get More Information

Legal Issues

The dangers of asbestos exposure were known long before any efforts were made to protect workers. Thousands of American workers were exposed to asbestos during the twentieth century, with no indication as to the risks that they were facing.

Companies that produced asbestos-containing products or used these products on a daily basis are liable for their negligence in failing to protect their workers. If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease as a result of asbestos exposure, it's important to know you can talk to an attorney about seeking compensation for pain and suffering as well as reimbursement for medical expenses and lost income. For more information, please fill out the form on the right to receive a comprehensive packet.

Mesothelioma Cancer & Veterans

According to a revealing statistic, more than 30 percent of Americans beset with mesothelioma (a rapacious cancer that attacks the internal lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart) were exposed to asbestos during military service.

Due to common military practices, veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have a great risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses. Additionally, Navy personnel and workers employed in shipyards from the 1930s through the 1970s hold a greater risk of developing a disease caused by asbestos exposure.

We offer assistance to veterans who wish to file a claim as a result of any disability. Our veterans benefit counselors are available to help guide you through this process at no charge. For guidance and more information, please click here to request additional information or have a veterans benefit counselor contact you.

Sources:

1. Castleman, B. Asbestos: Medical and Legal Aspects. Aspen Publishers: New York. 2005.
2. Dodson, R. and Hammar, S. Asbestos: Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, and Health Effects. Taylor & Francis: Boca Raton. 2006.
3. http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/mesothelioma/DS00779/DSECTION=all&METHOD=print
4. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_3X_How_is_malignant _mesothelioma_diagnosed_29.asp?sitearea
5. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_are_the_key_statistics_for_malignant _mesothelioma_29.asp?sitearea
6. http://www.cancer.org/downloads/PUB/DOCS/SECTION28/89.pdf
7. http://www.marf.org/Resources/UnderstandingMeso/MesoDetails.html
8. http://sup.ultrakohl.com/Uscap/uscap05/meso3.htm
9. http://medind.nic.in/ibq/t04/i3/ibqt04i3p142.pdf
10. http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Aboutcancer/Whatiscancer/Whatiscancer/related_faqs/QAs/502
11. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000116.htm

Mesothelioma News

• Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Fatalities Remain High in the United States
  2009-04-24 - According to health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fatalities from asbestos-related diseases are continuing to rise in the United States. The organization repo ...
  Read More
• Mesothelioma Patient Gambles on Life and Wins Big
  2009-04-23 - A mesothelioma patient bet bookmakers $145 that he would live longer than doctor's predicted. Buckinghamshire, England resident Jon Mathews could collect nearly $51,000 if he continues to win his b ...
  Read More
• Prosecution in W.R. Grace Asbestos Trial Calls On Final Witness
  2009-04-22 - The prosecutors representing the government in the W.R. Grace & Company trial have recently called on their final witness to testify against the company. Dr. Richard Lemen, a former assistant s ...
  Read More

Mesothelioma Overview

Mesothelioma Causes & Steps After a Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells that lines many organs and body cavities. The mesothelium (composed of mesothelial cells) is the membrane that lines three of the body's cavities, and depending on what cavity it lines it is given a specific name: the thoracic cavity (pleura), abdominal cavity (peritoneum), and the heart sac (pericardium).

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can develop in the mesothelium of the thoracic cavity in the lungs.

The mesothelium that covers the internal organs is called the visceral mesothelium, while the layer that covers the body wall is called parietal mesothelium.

Mesothelium tissue also surrounds the male internal reproductive organs and covers the internal reproductive organs in women.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer of the mesothelium, in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide uncontrollably and without order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the thoracic cavity (pleura) or the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).

Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States, comprising around 3 percent of all cancer diagnoses. This cancer occurs about four times more frequently in men than in women. All forms of mesothelioma, except for benign mesothelioma, are invariably fatal. The prognosis for mesothelioma is almost always poor and most studies report a median survival of less than one year, but the prognosis really depends on how early the cancer is diagnosed and how aggressively it is treated.

After a mesothelioma patient learns of their diagnosis, the next step is often exploring applicable treatment options to create the best treatment plan possible. Treatment options range from surgery to chemotherapy and we offer information about the various types of treatment available to patients. To help you learn more about these options, we provide an informational packet to interested patients and their loved ones at the top, right of this page.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous substance that was widely used in the twentieth century in a number of different industries. Popular because of its durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties, it was regularly used in the manufacture of several thousand different products, up until the time that asbestos warnings were issued in the mid-1970s. It is estimated that approximately 80 to 90 percent of mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure.

The exact way in which asbestos causes mesothelioma is not well understood though doctors and researchers have put forth many hypotheses. What is apparent, however, is that any length of exposure to asbestos can be hazardous and may result in the development of asbestos-related diseases later in life.

Types of Mesothelioma

There are five known types of mesothelioma. Four of these are malignant cancers, and one is a benign condition.

Once asbestos is inhaled it can effect many of the bodys different organs including the throat, lungs, stomach, heart and testicles.

Pleural Mesothelioma: This type of mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura. It is the most common form of malignant mesothelioma, with around 70 percent of cases being pleural in origin.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma: This form of mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneal membrane. Approximately 25 percent of mesothelioma cases are of this type.

Pericardial Mesothelioma: This form of mesothelioma develops in the lining of the heart, known as the pericardium. About 5 percent of all mesothelioma cases are pericardial.

Testicular Mesothelioma: This is the rarest type of malignant mesothelioma; to date, there have been less than 100 recorded cases. Testicular mesothelioma develops in the tunica vaginalis of the testicles.

Benign Mesothelioma: The benign form of mesothelioma most commonly develops in the pleura. This is the only form of mesothelioma for which full cure and recovery is a probable outcome, though it may be a precursor of future asbestos-related problems.

Mesothelioma Symptoms and Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, largely due to the fact that it remains latent in the body for up to five decades and is usually not diagnosed until its late stages.

A medical exam is the first step in diagnosing an asbestos-related illness.

The most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are shortness of breath, chest pain, and persistent cough. However, some patients may not show any symptoms at all. A frequent sign is pleural effusion (water in the lungs).

Some symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss, abdominal pain and swelling, and bowel obstruction. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, some other common symptoms may include trouble swallowing, swelling of the neck or face, blood clotting problems, anemia, and fever.

Also, diagnosis may be difficult due to the non-specific nature of most mesothelioma symptoms, which often resemble symptoms of less serious diseases.

The process of diagnosis usually begins with a compilation of the patient's full medical and work history, including any exposure to asbestos. A medical examination is performed and if a problem is suspected, one or more diagnostic tests are ordered. These typically include medical imaging tests such as x-rays, CT, and MRI scans, as well as biopsy procedures that test samples of fluid and tissue for the presence of cancer cells. Diagnostic tests are also used to determine how far the cancer has advanced, and whether it has spread to other locations in the body.

Mesothelioma Treatment

There are a variety of treatment options for mesothelioma patients including radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery.

Mesothelioma treatments can be divided into two main categories: curative treatments and palliative treatments. Curative treatments are those carried out in an attempt to remove all cancer cells and cure the disease. Palliative treatments are designed to ease pain and make a patient more comfortable.

Treatments for mesothelioma include conventional treatments such as surgery, mesothelioma chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, as well as experimental procedures, including immunotherapy and gene therapy.

Generally, a patient with mesothelioma will receive more than one type of conventional treatment. For example, they may undergo surgery to remove the bulk of cancerous tissue, and then receive chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Experimental treatments are typically available only to patients who agree to enter clinical trials. In these cases, patients must fit certain criteria to be eligible.

Causes

What are the main causes of mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is most predominantly caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers that are inhaled through the mouth and nose may eventually become embedded in the lining of the lungs, causing damage and resulting in lung cancer or asbestosis (scar tissue formation in the lungs). It has also been found that swallowing asbestos fibers could contribute to a form of mesothelioma originating in the abdomen called peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma generally results from occupational exposure but there are instances of environmental exposure to asbestos that can cause the disease. Oftentimes second hand exposure of a family member to an asbestos workers dirty work clothes can result in that family member developing mesothelioma.

Asbestos insulation workers appear to have the highest death rate. One study reports that almost six percent of asbestos workers fall victim to mesothelioma and asbestos insulation workers are over 300 times more likely to die from mesothelioma than the general public.

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Symptoms

What are the warning signs of mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because the early signs and symptoms of the disease can be subtle at best. Symptoms are all too frequently ignored or dismissed by people who are inclined to attribute them to common every day ailments. Sometimes patients live with symptoms for up to 6 months before being diagnosed but usually the symptoms are present for two to three months prior to diagnosis.

About 60% of patients diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma experience lower back pain or side chest pain and there are frequent reports of shortness of breath. Lower numbers of people may experience difficulty swallowing, or have a persistent cough, fever, weight loss or fatigue. Symptoms to also consider are muscle weakness, loss of sensory capability, coughing up blood, facial and arm swelling and hoarseness.

Peritoneal mesothelioma originates in the abdomen and as a result, symptoms often include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. In the event that there is a hernia present, fluid build up may occur in the abdomen as well.

Anyone previously exposed to asbestos displaying any of these symptoms should seek medical attention right away.

Mesothelioma

What is it?

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. The only recognized cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, though other factors such as smoking can make the disease 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, 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 should fill out our form to receive a free mesothelioma information packet, detailing treatment options, emerging therapies, and jobsite exposure information.

Mesothelioma Treatment

A Patient's Options

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 the disease and supporting improved quality of life. Newly diagnosed patients always have many questions about the treatment options that would be most effective for them, including questions 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 chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. 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 treatment plan. We are always providing new and informative resources regarding mesothelioma treatment including: Clinical Trials, conventional treatments, experimental therapies, and more. Check back often for the most recent advances in mesothelioma treatments.

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 the disease. 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 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.

Veteran Support

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. 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. Veterans who were exposed 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 Complicates Demolition at NC Tobacco Plant

Greenville, North Carolina - April 24, 2009

Asbestos discovered at the Imperial Tobacco Plant in the college town of Greenville, NC has pushed back demolition and subsequently delayed the entire project. Asbestos was located in the plant facility and warehouse.

Aging High School Presents Health Concerns

Columbus, Georgia - April 23, 2009

At George Washington Carver High School, in Columbus, GA, teachers and students are growing increasingly concerned about the health risks of their aging school building.

"Green Generation," Others Celebrating Earth Day Today

Washington, DC - April 22, 2009

Today, April 22nd marks the 39th Earth Day here in the United States, and people all over the country are finding "green" ways to celebrate.

Mesothelioma Surgery

Mesothelioma Surgery. Surgery for mesothelioma. Removal of mesothelioma tumors by surgery. Surgery mesothelioma. Mesotheleoma surgery for removal of cancerous tumors. Malignant tumor removal by surgical operations. Operations to remove mesothelioma.

Debulking of mesothelioma. Mediastinoscopy is sometimes used as an aid in staging extent of disease when enlarged nodes are seen using imaging techniques. Laproscopy for mesothelioma. VATS, or video-assisted thoracic surgery.

Pleuroperitoneal Shunt for relief of mesothelioma pain. Pleurectomy for mesothelioma. Chest Tube Drainage and Pleurodesis. Surgery for mesothelioma.

Coping

Mesothelioma patients often feel more comfortable and secure being cared for at home. Many patients want to stay at home so that they will not be separated from family, friends, and familiar surroundings. Home care can help patients achieve this desire. It often involves a team approach that includes doctors, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, family members, and others. Home care can be both rewarding and demanding for patients and caregivers. It can change relationships and require families to address new issues and cope with all aspects of patient care. To help prepare for these changes, patients and caregivers are encouraged to ask questions and get as much information as possible from the home care team or organizations devoted to home care. A doctor, nurse, or social worker can provide information about patients’ specific needs, the availability of home care services, and a list of local home care agencies.

Services provided by home care agencies may include access to medical equipment; visits from registered nurses, physical therapists, and social workers; help with running errands, meal preparation, and personal hygiene; and delivery of medication. The state or local health department is another important resource in finding home care services. The health department should have a registry of licensed home care agencies.

Financial assistance to help patients pay for home care is available from public and private sources. Government-sponsored programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid, the Older Americans Act, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, cover home care for those who meet their criteria.

Some people may qualify for Medicare, a health insurance program for the elderly or disabled that is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare may offer reimbursement for some home care services. Cancer patients who qualify for Medicare may also be eligible for coverage of hospice services if they are accepted into a Medicare-certified hospice program. Information about Medicare services and coverage is available from the toll-free Medicare Hotline at 1–800–633–4227 (1–800–MEDICARE), or by writing to 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244–1850. Deaf and hard of hearing callers with TTY equipment may call 1–877–486–2048. Medicare information can also be accessed at http://www.medicare.gov on the Internet.

Medicaid, a jointly funded, Federal-State health insurance program for people who need financial assistance for medical expenses, is also coordinated by CMS. At a minimum, states must provide home care services to people who receive Federal income assistance such as Social Security Income and Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Medicaid coverage includes part-time nursing, home care aide services, and medical supplies and equipment. Information about coverage is available from local state welfare offices, state health departments, state social services agencies, or the state Medicaid office. The phone number for the state Medicaid office can be found in the blue pages of Government listings in the phone book, under the state health department heading. A list of state Medicaid phone numbers is also available on the CMS Web site at http://cms.hhs.gov/medicaid/mcontact.asp on the Internet.

The Older Americans Act provides Federal funds for state and local social service programs that help frail and disabled people age 60 and older remain independent. This funding covers home care aide, personal care, escort, meal delivery, and shopping services. Older persons, their caregivers, or anyone concerned about the welfare of an older person can contact their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for information and referrals to services and benefits in the community. AAAs are usually listed in the white pages of the phone book under the city or county government headings. A nationwide toll-free hotline operated by the Administration on Aging, the Eldercare Locator, provides information about AAAs and other assistance for older people; the number is 1–800–677–1116.

Veterans who are disabled as a result of military service can receive home care services from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Only home care services provided by VA hospitals may be used. More information about veterans benefits is available by calling 1–877–222–8387 (1–877–222–VETS). Information can also be found on the VA’s Web site at http://www.va.gov/health_benefits/ on the Internet.

Private health insurance policies may cover some home care or hospice services, but benefits vary from plan to plan. Policies generally pay for services given by skilled professionals, but the patient may be responsible for a deductible or copayment. Many health maintenance organizations require that home care or hospice services be given by authorized agencies. It is best to contact the insurance company to see which services are covered.

Medical Imaging—A way took inside the body

Medical imaging is a general categorization for a number of different methods used to create images of the inside of the human body. These images are used almost exclusively for medical or scientific purposes. The roots of medical imaging go back as far as 1895, when Wilhelm Roentgen accidentally discovered the existence of X-Rays. The X-Ray images for medical use were taken in the early part of the 20th Century and were of certain limbs, normally the hand. By the 1950s, X-Rays were in common use; by the 1970s, medical imaging made a rapid expansion through the use of other methods, including positron emission tomography (PET) and X-ray computed tomography (CT or CAT).

Medical imaging is deemed part of biological imaging and incorporates multiple aspects, including radiological sciences, endoscopy, medical thermograph, medical photography and microscopy. Medical imaging is considered by many to be an extension of radiology and is also referred to as “clinical imaging”. The individual analyzing the images made, regardless of whether actual radiation is involved, is a radiologist. In most cases, a radiographer is the individual actually taking the images.
Medical imaging can be considered a sub-segment of biomedical engineering, medical physics and normal medicine, depending on its use. Medical imaging can also be used in areas outside of the medical field. It has been used for scientific and industrial purposes as well. Certain kinds of medical imaging has been used in the field of archeology, for example, to analyze the inside of mummies or the fossilized bones of dinosaurs. Its industrial applications include taking detailed images of airplane wings or helicopter blades to look for cracks or other potentially harmful damage.

The primary use of medical imaging today is the production of images of all parts of the human body. The images are created through the use of certain kinds of waves (primarily X-Ray radiation or ultrasonic waves) which are absorbed or reflected by the body. The rate at which the rays are absorbed or reflected by bone, muscle or fat allows for the creation of an image.

There are multiple kinds of imaging technologies now in common use. The oldest and most common, radiographic images, use X-Rays to create images. The two forms of radiographic images are fluoroscopy, which produces real-time images with the assistance of contrast media injected into the body, and normal stationary X-Rays, which produce a one-time stationary image. Electron Microscopy is used to magnify and indentify extremely small items. It is commonly used in the diagnosis of kidney disease and immotile cilia syndrome.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets to polarize and excite hydrogen nuclei in water molecules in human tissue, producing a signal which produces a two-dimensional image of the human body. Tomography creates an image, known as a tomogram, of a single plane of an object. There are several kinds of tomography: linear tomography, poly tomography, zonography, orthopantomography and computed tomography (CT or CAT scans). Nuclear medicine includes the diagnosis and treatment of diseases using nuclear properties. In imaging, the energetic photons emitted from radioactive nuclei are used for enhancing and viewing infected areas. Digital Infared Imaging Thermography is frequently used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, as metabolic activity and circulation around a cancerous tumor is almost always greater than it is in normal breast tissue. This differentiation allows for a contrasted image to be made.