What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease that is becoming more and more common. Affecting the mesothelial cells that make up the mesothelium – the outer lining that protects the body’s major organs such as the heart, stomach and lungs – this form of cancer is a direct result of regular and unprotected exposure to asbestos. The symptoms and the latency period of this disease mean that it is difficult to diagnose. Treatment for mesothelioma is still being investigated through clinical trials and research, but as a rule it responds poorly to the treatments that are currently used.

The people most at risk from being carriers of this cancer are those have worked with asbestos over the past thirty to fifty years. Because of this, the disease is most common in men between the ages of sixty and seventy as this is the group that commonly worked with asbestos during those years. Because of the lack of protection and regulations in those days, these workers were constantly exposed to the dust and fibres from the asbestos, which caused the cells of the mesothelium to become abnormal. However, because the disease takes decades to develop fully and manifest, many of them were oblivious to this until thirty to fifty years later. It is these men who are now lodging multi-million dollar lawsuits against the unscrupulous companies that exposed them to the dangers of asbestos, even though they were aware that it could cause harm to the employees.

There are also other people at risk from the disease; namely those who have had regular contact with a person who has worked with asbestos. Because these workers regularly carried dust and fibres on their clothes, skin and in their hair, they fibres and dust could be ingested by family members, who were then at risk of developing mesothelioma, respiratory problems or another asbestos related disease.

The organs most affected by mesothelioma are the lungs and the surrounding tissue. Pleural mesothelioma, which is the type affecting the lining of the lungs, is the most common variation of this cancer with symptoms which include breathing and swallowing difficulties, coughing, shortness of breath, fever and weight loss. The abdomen is another area affected by this cancer, and this variation is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma is not as common as pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include nausea and vomiting, weight loss and loss of appetite, fever, bowel obstruction and pain or swelling of the stomach area. The last variation of the cancer is pericardial mesothelioma, which is where the cancer affects the heart and the tissue surrounding it. This variation is a rare one, and symptoms can include palpitations, breathing difficulties, and persistent coughing.

The symptoms of mesothelioma are very common to a number of other diseases which are more well-known in society. Therefore, it is not unusual for the patient to be misdiagnosed when he or she goes in displaying any or all of these symptoms. People who have worked with asbestos should always let their doctor know this so that the doctor is more aware and more conscious of the possibilities in the event that the symptoms do manifest. A speedy diagnosis is important to the effective treatment of mesothelioma, and without being aware of the facts your doctor may not be able to make the diagnosis as quickly as he would if he is aware of the situation.

Although there are treatments for mesothelioma, they do not have a high success rate particularly on patients in whom the cancer is in its later stages. The faster the mesothelioma is diagnosed and treated, the more chance of success, which is why it is important to get as fast a diagnosis as possible.

Current treatments for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation therapy, palliative therapy and chemotherapy. The National Institute of Cancer along with a variety of other organizations and sponsors are currently conducting research into mesothelioma and carrying out clinical trials to try and find a treatment that will not only be more effective but will enable the successful treatment of the disease even in its later stages.

Mesothelioma And Asbestos

The cause of a number of ailments and diseases, including the deadly cancer mesothelioma, asbestos has actually been in use for centuries. The name asbestos was given to this mineral by the Ancient Greeks, and the word literally means inextinguishable. The Greeks gave it this name because of its amazing fireproof qualities, although they also noted the harmful effects that asbestos had upon workers.

Asbestos is a soft and flexible, which has been widely used for many years for a variety of things. The modern use for this mineral is for insulation, and it has been used in a wide range of items and structures, from ceilings and walls to toasters and hairdryers. This mineral became popular during the industrial revolution as an effective and safe form of insulation – safe in that it was fireproof, but certainly not safe in any other sense. Although the risks involved in using and working with asbestos had been observed several hundred years earlier, these risks were not taken into account when asbestos became widely used for insulation.

It was not until the 1900s that the facts regarding the risks involved to workers began to re-emerge. An English physician carried out a post-mortem on a man who had worked with asbestos for many years, and he found traces of fibres and dust in the man’s lungs. The doctor stated that the man had died due to his exposure to this mineral. Over the next twenty or so years professionals in many countries began to notice the fact that disease, illness and death was uncommonly high amongst asbestos workers.

In the mid 1920s, an English doctor made the first diagnosis of asbestosis, and this was followed by a study which showed that 25% of English asbestos workers showed signs of a related lung disease. Laws were then stepped up in England to provide better ventilation and more protection to workers who were regularly exposed to asbestos. These steps were slowly followed by other countries over the next decade.

This protection was slow to be implemented and did not prove all that effective. Although asbestos manufacturers and companies that used the mineral were now aware of these studies and the risks involved to workers, they continued to use asbestos widely, exposing many workers to the hazards associated with it. These employees continued to work with asbestos, totally oblivious of the harm that it was capable of causing. Asbestos continued to be widely used until the mid-seventies, by which time many workers has been exposed and were already unknowingly affected by what we now know as mesothelioma.

Today, as the disease begins to take its toll on the asbestos workers of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, many new cases of the disease are being diagnosed each year. In fact, the number of cases is rising so quickly that many law firms have employed or trained lawyers to deal specifically with these types of cases. The irresponsible companies and manufacturers that were responsible for this exposure have been sued for billions of dollars, with many of them going bankrupt as a result of compensation payouts.

Although the effects of asbestos have been observed, tested and verified, this mineral is still used today in many places around the world. Although the laws and regulations regarding working with asbestos are far more stringent these days, this doesn’t change the fact that this mineral can cause more harm than good and has claimed many victims from all over the world in the form of the deadly disease mesothelioma.

Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a mineral that can occur naturally in the environment, and is also used by man in a range of products. This material was once widely used in many places, but as the dangers of exposure to asbestos began to come to light, this all changed. However, for many people it was too late, as the damage had already been done. This is because asbestos is responsible for a number of side effects, which can cause anything from discomfort to death. Asbestosis and pleural plaques can result from exposure to asbestos, and more notably so can mesothelioma, a deadly cancer that can take many decades to develop but only a matter of months from the onset of symptoms to kill.

Mesothelioma is caused by ingesting or breathing in loose asbestos fibres, which can then cause scarring and ultimately can lead to this cancer. The cancer can affect the lung, chest, or abdominal cavities, but it also has a very long latency period, which means that it could be thirty years or more before the person even realizes that they have contracted the cancer because this is how long it can take to manifest. The onset of symptoms can take up to fifty years or more in some cases, but once the symptoms have manifested the lifespan of the person can be as short as several months.

Between the 1950s and the 1980s, many people – mainly men – worked in industries where they were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis and for long periods of time. This mineral was so widely used because it was cheap and because of its fire resistant properties. Because the effects of the mineral were largely unknown except for in certain circles at the time, workers did not question the lack of protection or concern displayed with regards to working so closely with asbestos.

However, it is thought that many companies and manufacturers were aware of the deadly effects of this mineral from as early as the 1920s. However, their failure to provide oblivious employees with protection against the effects of asbestos resulted in many people contracting this cancer, and only realizing thirty to fifty years down the line just as they were settling down to enjoy their retirement.

Some of the workers mostly likely to come across asbestos on a day to day basis and therefore most at risk included as insulators, plasterers, electricians, mechanics, bricklayers, carpenters, and other tradesmen. This is because these professionals worked closely with materials and products that contained asbestos. Also at risk were the families of these workers, as they could often ingest or breathe in asbestos fibres from the clothes, skin, or hair of the worker, and this could lead to the same effects.

Millions of workers have been exposed to asbestos over the years, and the unlucky ones have discovered several decades later just what an impact their work had on their health. Many of the cases of mesothelioma coming to light today are in men, as it was mainly men that worked with asbestos several decades ago. These workers are now finding out that they have this cancer and other asbestos related disorders, as the symptoms finally manifest.

The dangers of asbestos exposure have now been far more widely recognised. However, millions of people worldwide have been exposed to this mineral. For these people, living life can be like living on borrowed time, and each year, thousands of new cases of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers are diagnosed.

This figure is likely to increase over the next ten years or so, and many more middle-aged and elderly people could find that they have been harbouring this deadly cancer for the past few decades.

Although it is now known that asbestos exposure is responsible for malignant mesothelioma and other forms of cancer, asbestosis, pleural plaques, and other respiratory and health problems, this mineral can still be found in insulation materials in many places worldwide, and therefore continues to hold its deadly reign over mankind.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells around the heart, lungs or abdominal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is the one which affects the pleura, the thin membrane between the lungs and the chest cavity. This type of the disease is known as Pleural Mesothelioma, and sufferers can experience symptoms which include: shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, chest pains, weight loss, and trouble swallowing.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma is another form of this disease but is not as common as Pleural Mesothelioma. This type of the disease affects the peritoneum membrane of the abdomen. These tumors can also be found in the stomach and abdominal organs. Sufferers of Peritoneal Mesothelioma can experience symptoms which include: stomach pains and abdominal swelling, nausea, loss if appetite, vomiting, bowel obstruction, and blood clotting abnormalities.

The third and the rarest type of mesothelioma is Pericardial Mesothelioma, which affects the tissue and cavity surrounding the heart. Patients of this type of the disease may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, persistent coughing and palpitations.

Malignant mesothelioma is a fatal disease caused by exposure to asbestos. A form of cancer, this disease can affect the sac lining, the chest or the abdomen. An unusual aspect about this disease is that it does not manifest itself for years following the asbestos exposure – in fact, the average manifestation time is 35-40 years later, and in some cases even 50 years later.

In previous years, asbestos was widely used in many places. Many people worked with this deadly material, unaware that several decades later it would be the death of them. Workers such as insulaters, plasterers, electricians, mechanics, bricklayers, carpenters, and other tradesmen were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis as it was contained in many insulation and construction materials.

However, it is not only those that were regularly exposed to asbestos that are at risk. There have been many cases of mesothelioma manifestation in people that were only exposed to asbestos for a short period of time. In fact, the disease has even been known to affect people who have had only minimal contact, such as wives that used to wash their husbands overalls after they had worked with asbestos.

The long latency period attached to mesothelioma means that the symptoms of this disease can take many years to manifest, making both diagnosis and effective treatment very difficult. And even when the symptoms do become evident, which can take several decades, the symptoms are so generalised and non-specific that they could be put down to any number of more common diseases. This makes it hard for even experienced doctors to make a quick and conclusive diagnosis with mesothelioma patients. The symptoms of this disease can often be confused with pneumonia during its early stages.

Some of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (which is the most common form of the disease) are shortness of breath and chest pains. This may be accompanied by a persistent cough, and all of these symptoms stem from the build up of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. This is known as pleural effusion. This type of the disease starts in the chest cavity and can then spread to other parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma sufferers may also begin to display severe breathing difficulty, weight loss and fever as well as trouble swallowing and even swelling of the face and neck. Some patients may also develop a rasping voice and start coughing up blood. However, there are other patients that may not show any significant symptoms at all.

The symptoms for patients who suffer from peritoneal mesothelioma (a rarer form of the disease) are slightly different. This type of the disease starts in the abdomen and can spread form there. Patients of peritoneal mesothelioma can display abdominal pain and swelling, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting. They can also suffer breathing problems, and chest pain in addition to these symptoms. These symptoms result from tumors that lean against the abdominal wall. Bowel obstruction, anemia, fever and problems with blood clotting may also affect peritoneal mesothelioma patients.

The rarest form of this disease is pericardial mesothelioma, which starts in the cavity surrounding the heart. With pericardial mesothelioma, the tumors grow in the tissues that surround the heart and can spread from there. Pericardial mesothelioma sufferers may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations

The Different Types Of Mesothelioma

A disease that has only started to come to light in recent years, mesothelioma is a cancer that normally presents itself in malignant form and results in tumours in and around vital organs of the body. The definition of the word mesothelioma is literally cancer of the mesothelium (-oma being a medical term for cancer). The mesothelium is the sac that lines and protects vital organs such as the heart and the lungs, and this disease causes the cells of the lining to become abnormal and malignant.

The result of asbestos exposure, mesothelioma comes in three forms: pleural mesothelioma; peritoneal mesothelioma; and pericardial mesothelioma. All three types have a variety of associated symptoms, and there are some symptoms that are common to all three types of the disease. In all cases of the disease, sufferers are unlikely to even realise that there is a problem until many years after they have actually contracted mesothelioma from regular exposure to asbestos.

The symptoms of all types of mesothelioma do not generally manifest for several decades after contraction. This can make the disease difficult to diagnose and all too often is too late to save the patient by the time a diagnosis is made.

Pleural Mesothelioma:

The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. This is where the cancer affects the lungs and the protective lining and cavity of the lungs. The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma result from pleural effusion, which is a build up of fluid between the lung lining and the chest cavity. Sufferers of pleural mesothelioma may experience some or all of the following symptoms: difficulty in breathing, difficulty in swallowing, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, weight loss, fever, coughing up of blood, and rasping.
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Peritoneal Mesothelioma:

A rarer form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma. This is where the cancer affects the stomach and abdomen. The cancer can start in the abdominal area and spread to other parts of the body, but the tumours that press against the wall of the abdomen can cause some or all of the following symptoms: abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, breathing problems, chest pain, bowel obstruction, anaemia, fever, and blood clotting abnormalities.
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Pericardial Mesothelioma:

The last and the rarest of the mesothelioma types is pericardial mesothelioma. This is where the cancer affects the heart and the cavity that surrounds the heart. The tumours affecting pericardial mesothelioma patients can cause some or all of these symptoms: chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, persistent coughing, and palpitations.
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There are also cases of other asbestos related diseases such as asbestosis and respiratory problems that have stemmed from exposure to this potentially fatal material. Anyone that has worked with asbestos should see their doctor if they have any onset of this type of problem or if they are concerned and have doubts.

As you can see, the symptoms for all three types of mesothelioma are non-specific, which means that they could be the result of a number of more common diseases that are associated with the same symptoms. Many of the symptoms are the same as those displayed by viral pneumonia patients, and the disease if often mistaken for something else.

If your doctor is unaware that you have been exposed to asbestos, he or she is unlikely to assume that you may have mesothelioma and will instead test for a number of other more common diseases that are associated with your symptoms. People who have worked with asbestos or who have close contact with someone that works with asbestos should therefore always be vigilant in looking out for any of these symptoms and seeking medical advice if any or all of the symptoms manifest. They should also make their doctor aware that they have worked with asbestos so that no further time is wasted in testing for other types of disease. Much of the delay in diagnosing mesothelioma comes from lack of information and awareness on both the part of the doctor and the patient.

However, it is up to the patient, who is aware of the asbestos exposure, to increase the chances of a speedy diagnosis by making the doctor aware of the circumstances and keeping an eye out of any tell tale signs that mesothelioma may be present.

The Different Types Of Mesothelioma: Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal Mesothelioma is the name given to the cancer that attacks the lining of the abdomen. This type of cancer is caused by asbestos exposure, and it affects the lining that protects the contents of the abdomen and which also provides a lubricating fluid to enable the organs to move and work properly.

This disease is sometimes referred to as diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma, and this is where the cancer has spread out. Accountable for around ten percent of mesothelioma cases, this type asbestos-related cancer is the second most common (after Pleural Mesothelioma).

There are a number of symptoms for this disease. However, like all other types of mesothelioma, there is a very long latency period, and symptoms may not become evident for decades after exposure. This means that by the time symptoms have begun, it is often already too late to offer any real constructive treatment. Further delay can be caused due to the fact that the symptoms are generally non-specific and can therefore be attributed to a number of more common ailments. Unless your doctor is aware that you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, he or she is likely to look at other options before even contemplating mesothelioma. It is therefore important to let your doctor know of any exposure to this substance.

The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include: abdominal pains and weakness; weight loss; nausea; loss off appetite; abdominal swelling; bowel obstruction. Depending on the location of the tumour, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.

Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma can also vary, and is dependant upon a number of factors. The doctor, once a diagnosis has been made, will make a recommendation based upon details such as: the extent of the cancer and how advanced it is; the patient’s general condition and health; past medical history of the patient; and the patient’s age.

Treatments include:

Surgery: This entails cutting out part of the lining and tissue from the abdomen in order to remove the tumour. Whether or not surgery is performed and how much tissue is removed will depend on how far the cancer has spread and how big the tumour is. It may sometimes be necessary to remove a lung or part of the diaphragm in order for surgery to succeed in removal of the tumour.

Radiation Therapy: This is where high energy x-rays are used to shrink tumours and kill off cancerous cells in the affected area. There are two ways to administer radiation therapy. The first is through external means, where a machine is placed outside the body and emits radiation through the body. The second is by placing a source of radiation directly to the affected area by way of plastic tubes. As well as administering the radiation treatment through the tubes, doctors are also able to administer any required drugs this way.

Chemotherapy: This is where a combination of drugs is used to try and kill off cancer cells. Drugs can be administered by mouth in tablet form, or you may have to have them administered intravenously via needle into a vein or a muscle. The drug can then enter the blood stream and travel through the body, hopefully killing off any cancer cells along the way.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma is responsible for many deaths each year. Although it is not the most common form of this cancer, many new cases come to light each year. However, with continued research and clinical trials, it may be possible to one day make this a curable disease

The Different Types Of Mesothelioma: Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma that exists, and in its malignant form is the direct result of exposure to asbestos fibres. You can get benign tumours with mesothelioma, but the malignant form is by far the most common. The breathing in of asbestos fibres is what puts those who work unprotected with asbestos at risk, and the risks can be heightened by smoking as well as exposure to this hazardous fibre.

This form of mesothelioma attacks the lungs and respiratory areas of the body. The cancer attacks the cells and the lining (known as the pleura) of the lungs and ribs. As with other forms of mesothelioma, the symptoms can take twenty or thirty years (sometimes longer) to present themselves following exposure to asbestos, making it impossible for people to realise that they have been affected until it is too late.

There are a number of symptoms for pleural mesothelioma, and like peritoneal mesothelioma, they can appear very non-specific and could be put down to a number of common diseases or illnesses. The long latency period associated with mesothelioma is already the cause of much delay, but the type of symptoms associated with this disease can cause even further delay, even when the onset begins.

Without prior knowledge that you have worked with asbestos and are therefore a high risk patient where mesothelioma is concerned, your doctor could end up testing for a wide range of other diseases such as pneumonia. This wastes much needed time, and it is therefore vital that you not only keep your eyes open for any of the associated symptoms but also inform your doctor of your past history of working with asbestos. Armed with this information, the doctor can then start running appropriate tests should the symptoms manifest.

Some of the symptoms that are commonly associated with pleural mesothelioma include: persistent coughing; difficulty swallowing; facial swelling; weight loss; fever; rasping; and coughing up blood. Some patients may also experience shortness of breath, whether they are being active or even when they are resting. This can be caused by the thickening of the pleura due to the spread of the tumour. The thicker the pleura gets, the less space the lungs have to function properly, hence breathing begins to be affected.

Some patients may also experience severe pain in the chest or ribs, and this is caused by the spread of the cancerous cells and the tumour. Should the tumour start to spread outwards, it will affect the chest area as well as the lungs.

Treating pleural mesothelioma is dependant on many things, and it is the doctor that will normally suggest the recommended course of treatment based upon his knowledge and the findings from his diagnostic tests. Factors such as the patient’s age, medical history, general well being, and even weight, are taken into account. Other factors that have to be considered include: how far the cancer has spread; and where the cancer is.

The treatments for the different types of mesothelioma are more or less the same in most cases, but obviously they are targeted towards different areas of the body depending upon which area has been affected by the cancer.

These treatments include:

Surgery: This may entail moving part or all of a lung and some of the surrounding tissue in order to remove the tumour and cancerous cells. It may also be necessary to drain the lungs of fluid, simply to make the patient more comfortable. The extent of surgery will depend largely upon the extent to which the cancer has spread.

Chemotherapy: For this procedure, drugs are used to fight the cancerous cells and kill them as well as shrink the tumour. These drugs can be swallowed by mouth if they are in tablet form, or the doctor may administer them needle directly into a vein or muscle. The drugs are then able to travel through the body via the blood stream and kill off any cancer cells that they come across.

Radiation Therapy: This is where high energy x-rays are used either outside the body (external radiation) or directed to the source internally (internal radiation) to shrink the tumour and kills off cancer cells. Internal radiation is preformed through the use of plastic tubing, where the doctor can also administer drugs

The Different Types Of Mesothelioma: Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form of this asbestos-related cancer. This form of cancer affects the lining that surrounds the heart, and is associated with long term exposure to asbestos fibres.

The symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma, as with other types of mesothelioma, can take decades to manifest. If a person worked with asbestos twenty or thirty years ago and shows no symptoms, that does not mean that they have the all clear. The symptoms typically take around twenty or thirty years to manifest anyway, sometimes even longer.

This means that the cancer is usually too advanced to treat effectively by the time it is diagnosed. It is always advisable that people who have worked with asbestos on a frequent basis in the past inform their doctors. Although nothing can be done to speed up the onset of symptoms in order to catch the disease in time to treat, any further delay in diagnosis can be alleviated by making your doctor aware of all the facts so that a speedy diagnosis can be made if the symptoms to manifest.

There are several main symptoms to look out for with pericardial mesothelioma. These include: persistent coughing; shortness of breath; chest pain; palpitations. Anyone that has worked with asbestos and experiences any or all of these symptoms should seek medical advice immediately.

Once your doctor has made a diagnosis, it is important to assess the extent to which the disease has spread and to what degree it has advanced. This is usually determined by imaging. A CT Scan or MRI Scan can normally reveal what stage the disease is at, and this will help to determine what sort of treatment can be considered. The patient’s age, medical condition, and past medical history will also be taken into account when deciding upon a course of treatment.

Pericardial mesothelioma can occasionally be treated with surgery. However, the nature of this cancer means that it is very advanced by the time that it is diagnosed and this often means that surgery for this particular type of mesothelioma has to be ruled out. Even if surgery is performed, it is unlikely that all of the tumour or cells can be removed or treated, hence further treatment of radiation or chemotherapy (known as systemic treatments) is needed afterwards anyway.

The two most common forms of treatment for pericardial mesothelioma are radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is the most commonly used of the two procedures for this type of mesothelioma, and the one that has proven most successful with pericardial mesothelioma patients to date. However, both types of treatment must be carefully monitored due to the risk they pose to healthy cells as well as affected ones.

Another low risk procedure often used simply to relieve symptoms is a ‘fine needle aspiration.’ This is where a needle is inserted into the chest cavity in order to drain off excess fluid build up caused by the cancer. This can often relieve some of the symptoms of the disease.

Clinical trials into all types of mesothelioma are still being continued all over the country and all over the world. Many patients find that it helps to be a part of a clinical trial as it gives them a chance to try a new form of treatment that could be effective, as well as giving them hope and making them feel more positive. And it is through this type of positive attitude along with the hard work of the professionals that, one day, a cure for all types of mesothelioma at all stages could be discovered

Symptoms Of Mesothelioma

The long latency period attached to mesothelioma means that the symptoms of this disease can take many years to manifest, making both diagnosis and effective treatment very difficult. And even when the symptoms do become evident, which can take several decades, the symptoms are so generalised and non-specific that they could be put down to any number of more common diseases. This makes it hard for even experienced doctors to make a quick and conclusive diagnosis with mesothelioma patients. The symptoms of this disease can often be confused with pneumonia during its early stages.

Some of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (which is the most common form of the disease) are shortness of breath and chest pains. This may be accompanied by a persistent cough, and all of these symptoms stem from the build up of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. This is known as pleural effusion. This type of the disease starts in the chest cavity and can then spread to other parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma sufferers may also begin to display severe breathing difficulty, weight loss and fever as well as trouble swallowing and even swelling of the face and neck. Some patients may also develop a rasping voice and start coughing up blood. However, there are other patients that may not show any significant symptoms at all.

The symptoms for patients who suffer from peritoneal mesothelioma (a rarer form of the disease) are slightly different. This type of the disease starts in the abdomen and can spread form there. Patients of peritoneal mesothelioma can display abdominal pain and swelling, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting. They can also suffer breathing problems, and chest pain in addition to these symptoms. These symptoms result from tumours that lean against the abdominal wall. Bowel obstruction, anaemia, fever and problems with blood clotting may also affect peritoneal mesothelioma patients.

The rarest form of this disease is pericardial mesothelioma, which starts in the cavity surrounding the heart. With pericardial mesothelioma, the tumours grow in the tissues that surround the heart and can spread from there. Pericardial mesothelioma sufferers may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations.

As the disease moves into the later stages, the symptoms for all types of mesothelioma become more acute and obvious, although they can still often be put down to another illness. It is therefore important for patients to inform their doctor if they have been exposed to asbestos at any point – or even if they suspect they may have been exposed to asbestos. This will enable the doctor to make a more informed diagnosis rather than basing his diagnosis on guess work. It is also important not to ignore any of these symptoms, especially if they are experienced over a long period. Many people can be exposed to asbestos inadvertently (e.g. through the clothes of someone that has worked with asbestos) so it is important to visit your doctor should any of these symptoms manifest.

With pleural mesothelioma being the most common form of the disease, the symptom associated with this form of the cancer are the most common ones that are displayed by patients. However, it is important to be fully aware of the symptoms for all three types of mesothelioma, particularly for those who have worked in high risk professions where they may have been exposed to asbestos.

Most people who have worked with asbestos in the past do not begin to show symptoms of mesothelioma until thirty to forty years later. By this time, the disease is already spreading and with the delay in diagnosis, makes it impossible to treat in many cases before it is too late. However, the cause, effects and symptoms of mesothelioma are now becoming more widely known by professionals and lay people. This awareness, coupled with the current clinical trials that are being carried out by a variety of organizations gives patients the hope that an effective treatment will one day be available for all stages of the disease.

Diagnosing Mesothelioma

The diagnosis of mesothelioma is not always easy. Many doctors are still unfamiliar with the symptoms which could be put down to a number of other, more common diseases. Timely diagnosis of mesothelioma is particularly difficult because of the latency period between contraction and display of symptoms. The symptoms of this cancer may not become evident for decades, which means that by the time it is diagnosed it is in its latter stages and there is little that can be done for the patient.

There are many symptoms that become evident in Pleural mesothelioma patients, many of which are common symptoms in a variety of illnesses and diseases, hence the difficulty in diagnosis. Lower back pain, chest pain and shortness of breath are symptoms of the disease. Some patients also suffer from excessive perspiration, trouble swallowing, weight loss and tiredness. The disease affects the respiratory system, and results from an accumulation of fluid between the lung lining and chest cavity, known as pleural effusion. The other type of mesothelioma, which affects the abdominal lining, is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. The symptoms that may be displayed by patients include nausea, vomiting, weight loss and stomach pains.

The diagnosis of mesothelioma will entail scans and biopsies arranged by your doctor. A CT or MRI scan is often used to detect the possible presence of the disease, and if there is a positive indication of the presence of mesothelioma, the scans are followed up by a biopsy. Doctors often run an examination on the fluid surrounding the lungs, but all too often this is inadequate to make a firm diagnosis. In these circumstances the doctor may perform a small operation in order to remove a tissue sample and run a biopsy on that. This is known as open pleural biopsy. If you are suspected of suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma the biopsy will be performed on tissue taken from the abdominal area, known as a peritoneal biopsy.

Although the open biopsy procedures are considered to be the most effective and conclusive ways of diagnosing mesothelioma according to experts, there are a range of other procedures that doctors may use in order to try and determine whether a patient has the disease.

The testing procedure will start with imaging tests, such as x-rays, CT scans or MRI scans. This will enable the doctor to view the potentially affected area and make a preliminary diagnosis and decide upon the best course of action. The doctor may then use a needle to remove fluid from the affected area and conduct tests to see whether there are any malignant cells present. However, this test is widely thought of as inconclusive and many doctors prefer to follow it up with a tissue biopsy whether or not malignant cells are present.

There are several ways in which the doctor can perform a tissue biopsy in order to test for mesothelioma. A thoracoscopy or laparoscopy entails making a small incision and using a tiny camera to look at the affected area. At this time a small tissue sample can be taken, which is then examined by a pathologist for signs of mesothelioma. Your doctor may decide to do a needle biopsy, where a hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the chest cavity. The doctor is able to collect a tissue sample with the needle, and this is then examined by the pathologist.

However, most physicians prefer to use an open biopsy as this allows for the collection of a bigger tissue sample making diagnosis easier and more accurate. Once the tissue samples have been collected, a detailed examination of the cells is performed to check for malignant cells in the tissue. Once a diagnosis has been made, further scans may be required to learn the extent of the disease and prescribe treatment.

If you have worked with or had contact with asbestos at any time in your life, it is important that you let your doctor know. The difficulty in diagnosing mesothelioma means that you doctor may put your symptoms down to any number of diseases before testing for mesothelioma. However, if you have already made it known that you have worked with asbestos, it will give the doctor a head start in making a diagnosis. This means that test can be carried out far earlier and the necessary treatment can be prescribed.

Mesothelioma Treatments

With new clinical trials being introduced on a regular basis, there are a variety of treatments being used on mesothelioma. The treatment used is dependant upon a variety of factors, including the extent of the disease, the age and medical history of the patient, and the location and type of the mesothelioma.

The most common treatments are:

• Surgery, where the tissue in the affected area is cut out. This may involve removing part of the organ depending on the size of the affected area.
• Radiation treatment, which involves the use of radiation treatment to kill off the cancerous cells in the affected area.
• Chemotherapy, which is the use of drugs in the body used to kill off the cancerous cells.

Pneumonectomy

A surgical procedure, known as pneumonectomy, can be used for pleural mesothelioma and involves the removal of the diseased lung. An extra-pleural pneumonectomy may be necessary depending upon the spread of the disease, and this may involve the removal of parts of the diaphragm as well as the lung. There is a high risk factor with this surgery, and its viability is dependant upon the patient’s overall health, smoking habits and the extent of the asbestos exposure. A pleurectomy is another type of surgery that may be used, and here part of the chest, abdominal lining and surrounding tissue may be removed.

Radiation treatment

Radiation treatment , which gives the benefit of treating the affected area without exposing the healthy cells and tissue, is another treatment used to treat mesothelioma. This is a speedy and commonly used method for many types of cancer, as well as mesothelioma. It works through the placements of radioactive sources in the affected area, which then give out radiation to kill off the abnormal cells. The radiation continues to transmit for around a year, working to destroy the tumour. Radiation therapy can be used alongside surgery, or if the patient is not well enough for surgery can be used alone.

Chemotherapy treatments

Chemotherapy treatments can be administered in the form of pills or injected medication. The downside of chemotherapy is that the drugs used can contain high toxicity levels and can therefore make patients quite ill. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, weight loss and physical fatigue. There are also a number of post-chemo drugs that are used to alleviate the side effects of the chemotherapy. Because chemotherapy drugs are not targeted towards a specific area, they are left to make their way through the body and find the affected area. This means that they are also able to affect tissue and cells that are unaffected by the disease, which can again cause side effects.

Palliative Therapies

Palliative Therapies may also be used on mesothelioma patients. These therapies entail draining excess fluid from the patient through the use of a needle and suction. To prevent further fluid accumulation drugs may be fed through a tube into the chest following the fluid drainage.

Often, a combination of treatments and a cocktail of drugs have to be used in order to treat mesothelioma patients. Again, the types of treatment used will be dependant upon the age and physical health of the patient as well as upon how far the disease has spread and where it is located.

The above are some of the most common treatments used for the treatment of mesothelioma, but they do not always work effectively on mesothelioma patients. Because of this, sufferers of mesothelioma may be offered treatment as part of a clinical trial as opposed to any of the traditional treatments.

With new mesothelioma cancer treatments are continually being tested through medical research studies, it is hoped that an effective treatment will soon be discovered. These clinical trials enable professionals to asses whether the treatment being tested may one day be effective for general use to treat mesothelioma. And these clinical trials also give hope to the patients who allow themselves to be used as guinea pigs, enabling them to be a part of this important research and find a drug that may help them and others in the same situation.

Mesothelioma Research

Mesothelioma is a disease that is still very hard to recognise, difficult to diagnose and virtually impossible to treat effectively. It is known that the disease is asbestos related and that there is a long latency period before symptoms become apparent. But with more and more cases coming to light each year, it is vital that further research is carried out in order to make this fatal disease more manageable for both patients and doctors.

Many organizations are involved in research in to mesothelioma. This includes the companies that are responsible for the use of asbestos. Many people that have been diagnosed with mesothelioma have now discovered that they can claim compensation for being exposed to hazardous asbestos by companies, which means that these companies have a responsibility to help with this research.

The National Institute of Cancer is also working hard to research mesothelioma, its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. The rising number of mesothelioma cases means that it is essential to learn more about this disease in order to look into developing treatments.

With many mesothelioma patients now seeking legal advice, it has become essential for law firms to learn about and research the disease. It is the lawyer’s job to assist the mesothelioma patient and provide advice and resources from which the patient can get help and assistance. Therefore, law firms dealing with these types of cases also have a responsibility to learn about the disease and what can be done to help patients.

A great deal of research into mesothelioma goes into learning about the effects of asbestos upon cells, and how the cells are changed by exposure to this material. By learning how healthy cells and corrupted by asbestos, we hope to learn more about how this cell corruption can be prevented or minimised.

The National Institute of Cancer has also carried out clinical trials into the treatment of mesothelioma. The trials, which are performed with real patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, should help to determine how effective the various treatments are, and hopefully will go some way to helping experts find more effective treatments for the disease.

Mesothelioma trials are based upon treatments that are thought to have some value to patients. But the trials are just that – trials. This means that there are no guarantees and that a great deal more work and research will be required before a conclusive and effective treatment is found. On the upside, many new trials are being carried out on a regular basis, and with the information and technology available to scientists today, the discovery of an effective treatment for mesothelioma patients is just a matter of time.

Medical professionals worldwide are currently involved in clinical trials, and each trial depends upon the extent of spread of the disease. Some trials are performed on those who have been diagnosed reasonably early, others on patients who were not diagnosed until the latter stages of the disease. It is important for scientists to find a treatment that is effective not only on those who are diagnosed early, but on all patients that suffer from this killer disease.

The research carried out into mesothelioma will hopefully mean that future generations of suffers can be saved, even if they are diagnosed with the disease. The research carried out is extremely costly, and is often sponsored by associated companies such as drug companies and research groups as well as by the government. Research into the contraction of the disease, and its subsequent development will ultimately enable professionals to devise the most effective treatment.

Several new methods of treatment have been used following research into mesothelioma. These include:

• Photodynamic therapy, which uses fixed frequency light to target abnormal cells and kill them off by the activation of photosensitizing drugs.
• Immunotherapy, which fights the abnormal cells through the use of the body’s own defence system through enhancement and development of the immune system.
• Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, which is a radiation treatment that targets just the affected area/tumour, thus avoiding contact with healthy cells and tissue.

Although there is no quick-fix answer to the treatment of mesothelioma, ongoing research and dedication from the medical profession means that the chances of finding an effective treatment are continually increasing.

Mesothelioma Tests & Diagnosis Information

There are several tests that doctors can run to determine if a patient has a mesothelioma diagnosis. These mesothelioma tests vary in terms of intrusion into the body and accuracy. A time line for testing a person suspected of having mesothelioma is as follows:

When a patient first presents at the doctors office complaining of difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or pneumonia types symptoms, the primary care physician will take an X-ray or CT scan to determine the presence of asbestos in or around the lungs, heart or stomach.

Once the detection of asbestos is noted, the doctor will look for tell tale signs of cancer including but not limited to the presence of tumors around the vital organs. If tumors or growths are detected, the primary care physician will typically refer the patient to a specialist for various tests to determine whether there is a mesothelioma diagnosis.

A mesothelioma diagnosis is generally tested for in one of two ways. Depending on the condition of the patient, the doctor may want to do a minimally intrusive procedure called a needle biopsy. The procedure allows the doctor to abstract cells suspected of cancer infection from the lining affected area. The doctor can run tests on the mesothelial cells to determine the proper diagnosis for the patient. There are several ways in which the doctor can perform a tissue biopsy in order to run tests for mesothelioma. A thoracoscopy or laparoscopy entails making a small incision and using a tiny camera to look at the affected area. At this time a small tissue sample can be taken. The tissue samples will be sent away to a pathologists for further tests. Your doctor may decide to do a needle biopsy, where a hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the chest cavity. However, needle biopsies can be less than precise.

The second more common way that doctors test for mesothelioma is to surgically enter the patients body, at which time they cut a small piece of infected tissue for biopsy purposes. This test is known as an "open biopsy". The abstracted tissue is then sent out for testing by a specialist. This process generally takes several days. If this test reveals the presence of mesothelioma the doctor will determine whether the diagnosed mesothelioma is benign or malignant.

If the doctor determines that the mesothelioma diagnosis is malignant, they will likely refer the patient to an oncologist (cancer doctor) for further tests and treatment.

The oncologist will test the patient to determine the progression of the mesothelioma and the prognosis for the future. At this time the oncologist will decide what treatment option is best for the patient.

Generally, the oncologist will start the patient on a series of chemotherapy treatments to slow the growth of the mesothelioma. If the doctor determines, after running tests, that the patient is not a candidate for chemotherapy, the oncologists may prescribe medication to help the patient with pain management.

Alternative Medicine Options For Mesothelioma

It can be very difficult for patients attempting to deal with a mesothelioma diagnosis. Traditional treatments can be very expensive and can be taxing on the patient's body. Further, many patients are not considered candidates for some of the more extreme procedures. Many patients faced with these obstacles seek alternative medicine to help them in their battle with mesothelioma.

Alternative medicine can take many forms. Treatment options are generally palliative in nature. Before you choose an alternative medicine, you should be careful to check with your doctor to ensure safety.

The ancient art of Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years in the east. This treatment has recently been recognized in the United States as being very effective at reducing pain suffered by cancer victims. Many oncologists from around the country are recommending this treatment in conjunction with other more traditional treatments to reduce pain.

Meditation has been highly touted as an effective alternative treatment plan that allows the cancer patient to reduce both stress and pain. Additionally some doctors suggest that meditation can also aid the bodies immune function.

Hypnosis is another accepted way for a cancer patient to reduce his or her pain. Hypnosis should always be performed by a licensed and experienced professional.

If you or a loved one would like any additional information on alternative medicine for mesothelioma treatment, please call us today. We are always available to help

Mesothelioma Clinical Trials: An Overview

(For Abstracts On Currently Available Clinical Trials, Click Here)

Mesothelioma clinical trials are a continual process, with experts and medical professionals working hard to try and find an effective, long term treatment for victims of this deadly cancer.

Resulting from exposure to asbestos fibres, mesothelioma is a cancer that can affect various parts of the body. Most commonly, it affects the lung and respiratory area, but can also affect the abdominal region and the heart. This cancer has a very long latency period, and symptoms may not show for several decades following exposure to asbestos. It is a disease that is notoriously difficult to diagnose due to its non-specific symptoms, and is equally hard to treat as there is currently no long term treatment available.

Through clinical trials, which are carried out all over the world, it is hoped that an effective treatment can be found that will stop this disease from being a terminal one. There have been some breakthroughs in terms of short term treatments and diagnostic tests, but a long term treatment is yet to be found. Clinical trials are no guarantee of successful treatment. However, they are normally performed with substances and medications that researchers believe to have some positive effect following lab and animal testing.

Clinical trials may differ from state to state, and anyone wishing to be part of a trial will need to meet the set criteria, which can again differ from state to state. The trials can be held as out-patient hospital treatments or within cancer research units, depending on the location.

There are generally three phases involved in clinical trials, and all three phases must be successful before the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) can consider approving the drug or treatment. These stages are:

Phase I: This takes place after lab and animal testing has been successfully performed. However, during this stage the effects on human patients of the drug or treatment being tested needs to be closely monitored. This stage is also used to determine the best method of administration of the drug, and how much can be administered safely.

Phase II: Following the evaluation of the safety of the treatment (during phase I) this phase assesses how effective the drug or treatment is. The patients’ affected areas are carefully monitored to see what effects the treatment has had on the cancer. Side effects as well as positive and negative effects are recorded and carefully assessed during this phase.

Phase III: This is where large numbers of patients are enrolled for testing of the treatment or drug. There is generally a ‘control group’ who are given a standard treatment, whereas the test group are given the new treatment. This enables researchers to compare the effects of the new treatment against the standard one. Patients are very closely monitored during this phase, and treatment is stopped upon the onset of any severe side effects.

There are a number of standard questions that a researcher needs to be able to answer from the results of clinical trials, such as:

• Whether the treatment is likely to help patients
• Whether the treatment works
• Whether the treatment is more effective than other standard treatments available
• What sort of side effects the treatment has
• Whether the benefits outweigh the risks and side effects
• Whether the treatment is likely to help a particular group of patients, and if so which group

Although doctors often recommend joining clinical trials to their patients (subject to eligibility) it is the patient’s decision as to whether or not he or she wishes to be part of a test group. Patients often agree to clinical trials in the hope that they can benefit from a new treatment as well as help the medical profession to find a drug that can help others in the same situation. However, refusing to be part of a clinical trial does not in any way affect the patient’s right to standard treatment or medication.

(For Abstracts On Currently Available Clinical Trials, Click Here)

Mesothelioma Clinical Trials: Abstracts

In order to try and find an effective treatment and cure for mesothelioma, clinical trials have been a vital part of the treatment process. These trials, carried out at institutions and hospitals all over the country, are extensive tests to determine the efficiency and side effects of any drug which has shown marked improvement when tested under lab conditions and in animal tests.

It is not guaranteed that any clinical trial will prove more successful or even as successful as treatment already being used. The purpose of clinical trials is to determine what sort of effect the new treatment or drug may have, and from there a decision can be made as to whether the treatment should be put forward for approval by the FDA (Food and Drugs Administration).

Clinical trials are based around drugs which have shown signs of responding well to cancerous cells, and the purpose of these trials is to monitor the response and effects on human test subjects. The nature of each trial can differ depending on the state and location in which it is being held.

Some recent and current clinical trials from around the country include:
(Click On Title For More Information)

• Alimta & Gemcitabine
• Neoadjuvant Pemetrexed Disodium and Cisplatin followed by Surgery and Radiation Therapy
• Intra pleural BG00001
• Erlotinib on Patients with Solid Tumours or Liver/Kidney Dysfunction
• PTK787/ZK 222584 for Patients with Unresectable Malignant Mesothelioma
• Alanosine
• SS1 (dsFv) – PE38 Immunotoxin (for advanced cancer patients)
  

The above are a sample of some of the recent and current clinical trials on operation. There are new trials and tests coming to light on a regular basis, many of which will undergo clinical trials. And through this continual testing, it is hoped that a breakthrough in mesothelioma treatment will come to light.

Mesothelioma Related & Other United States Cancer Centers

The rise in numbers of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma over recent years has also seen an increase in research and clinical trials in to this deadly cancer. With number expected to continue riding over the next couple of decades, it is vital that thorough research into mesothelioma continues in order for an effective treatment to be found.

The United States now has a number of cancer centers that are dedicated to finding effective treatment for mesothelioma and other types of cancer. These cancer centers concentrate their efforts in to research, trials, treatment, education and support, giving cancer patients help for today and hope for the future.

There are various types of cancer centers throughout the United States, some of which concentrate more on one area of the disease and others which cover all aspects.

You can find Generic Cancer Centers which focus more on basic research in to mesothelioma and other cancers. Then there are Clinical Cancer Centers which focus on research based around strong clinical and more advanced science. Finally there are Comprehensive Cancer Centers, which concentrate on many areas of the disease such as research, education, support and treatment.

However, it is the combined efforts of all of thee types of cancer centers that contribute to breakthroughs and successful treatments for cancer patients.

Cancer centers are a vital part of the country’s fight against cancer and form an important network that is working towards the cure and prevention of cancer as well as educating others about the disease. The research teams that work in these centers are trained professionals in a number of areas such as specialists in oncology, pathology and radiologists amongst others. These experts are constantly working hard to find effective treatment options which could one day make cancer a curable and non-terminal disease.

The one main setback for all cancer centers is funding. Many are government funded to some degree, but the allocation of funding particularly to mesothelioma cancer centers is very limited. Therefore many cancer centers also rely on funding from other businesses and on donations from the public. The lack of money is a serious problem that can hinder the treatment and research capabilities of these centers.

Many of the cancer centers around the United States have been at the forefront of some important clinical trials which have already helped to improve the quality of patients’ lives as well as improved the chances of speedy diagnosis and extended lifespan. And, although no long-term cure for mesothelioma and related cancer has yet been found, the work carried out by the cancer center teams continues to give patients hope. With appropriate funding and support, it is these cancer centers that offer a realistic prospect of an effective treatment and cure for cancer sufferers.

Although generic and clinical cancer centers focus more on research and science than on trials and treatment, their contribution to cancer care and prevention is pivotal and will always play a vital role in the breakthrough that will one day enable us to cure this disease. The comprehensive cancer centers, which also offer support, trials and treatment are also vital in the search for a breakthrough in cancer care as well as in supporting and education patients.

All three types of cancer centers play an equally crucial part in America’s crusade to beat mesothelioma and cancer.

List of United States Cancer Centers

There are cancer centers all over the United States, many of them located in the major cities for easy access. The mission of these cancer centers is to conduct extensive research in to the cause and effects of various types of cancer as well as finding effective treatment. Many of the centers also offer support and education to patients, giving them help in their time of need and hope for the future.

A list of some of the nationwide cancer centers that specialise in mesothelioma are listed below:

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, Texas TX77030
www.mdanderson.org

The mission of this center is to work towards eliminating cancer through integrated programmes, clinical trials, education programmes and cancer prevention.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Integrative Medicine Outpatient Center

Memorial Sloan-Kettering 65th Street
303 East 65th Street
New York, NY 10021
www.mskcc.org

Although this is the outpatient address listed above, there are other diagnostic, research and treatment facilities for this center located across the city.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

44 Binney Street
Boston, MA 02115
www.danafarber.org

This center offers patient care for adults and children, as well as support services and education.

H Lee Moffit Cancer Center & Research Institute

At The University of South Florida
12902 Magnolia Dr. Tampa, Fl 33612
www.moffitt.usf.edu

The mission of this center is simply to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer through research, education and trials.

The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute

300 West 10th Avenue, Suite 519
Columbus, Ohio, 43210
www.jamesline.com

This center is dedicated to conducting clinical research, providing educational advancement, increasing public awareness, and improving detection and treatment of cancer.

Fox Chase Cancer Center

333 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497
www.fccc.edu

This is an independent center that is dedicated to the improvement of cancer treatment and prevention. This is through high quality research, care treatment and education.

Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Elm and Carlton Streets
Buffalo, NY 14263
www.roswellpark.org

This center strives to provide more accurate diagnosis, extensive research, advanced education, and more effective therapies to inspire, support and treat patients.

Mayo Clinic

4500 San Pablo Road
Jacksonville, FL 32224
www.mayoclinic.com

This center also has branches in Minnesota and Arizona. The Mayo Clinic uses an expert team approach to provide quality diagnosis, treatment, care and surgery to cancer patients.

University of Chicago Hospitals

5841 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
www.uchospitals.edu

Here you will find a specialty cancer department that is focused upon the research and diagnosis of this disease as well as in the care and education of patients.

University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute

5150 Centre Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
www.upci.upmc.edu

This institute has five hundred faculty and staff working to improve diagnosis, treatment, understanding and prevention of cancer.

List of United States Cancer Centers

There are cancer centers all over the United States, many of them located in the major cities for easy access. The mission of these cancer centers is to conduct extensive research in to the cause and effects of various types of cancer as well as finding effective treatment. Many of the centers also offer support and education to patients, giving them help in their time of need and hope for the future.

A list of some of the nationwide cancer centers that specialise in mesothelioma are listed below:

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, Texas TX77030
www.mdanderson.org

The mission of this center is to work towards eliminating cancer through integrated programmes, clinical trials, education programmes and cancer prevention.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Integrative Medicine Outpatient Center

Memorial Sloan-Kettering 65th Street
303 East 65th Street
New York, NY 10021
www.mskcc.org

Although this is the outpatient address listed above, there are other diagnostic, research and treatment facilities for this center located across the city.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

44 Binney Street
Boston, MA 02115
www.danafarber.org

This center offers patient care for adults and children, as well as support services and education.

H Lee Moffit Cancer Center & Research Institute

At The University of South Florida
12902 Magnolia Dr. Tampa, Fl 33612
www.moffitt.usf.edu

The mission of this center is simply to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer through research, education and trials.

The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute

300 West 10th Avenue, Suite 519
Columbus, Ohio, 43210
www.jamesline.com

This center is dedicated to conducting clinical research, providing educational advancement, increasing public awareness, and improving detection and treatment of cancer.

Fox Chase Cancer Center

333 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19111-2497
www.fccc.edu

This is an independent center that is dedicated to the improvement of cancer treatment and prevention. This is through high quality research, care treatment and education.

Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Elm and Carlton Streets
Buffalo, NY 14263
www.roswellpark.org

This center strives to provide more accurate diagnosis, extensive research, advanced education, and more effective therapies to inspire, support and treat patients.

Mayo Clinic

4500 San Pablo Road
Jacksonville, FL 32224
www.mayoclinic.com

This center also has branches in Minnesota and Arizona. The Mayo Clinic uses an expert team approach to provide quality diagnosis, treatment, care and surgery to cancer patients.

University of Chicago Hospitals

5841 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
www.uchospitals.edu

Here you will find a specialty cancer department that is focused upon the research and diagnosis of this disease as well as in the care and education of patients.

University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute

5150 Centre Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
www.upci.upmc.edu

This institute has five hundred faculty and staff working to improve diagnosis, treatment, understanding and prevention of cancer.