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The latest success concerning a treatment for non- small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has scientists and researchers hopeful that the same treatment can be applied to mesothelioma victims. The Phase III trial for Alecensa (alectinib), while currently not recruiting participants, is on-going and results thus far have shown to be promising for those with NSCLC.…
Although still in the preliminary stages, scientists and researchers are excited to announce recent research involving a treatment that is used for certain types of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its effects on combating mesothelioma. This therapeutic agent is called Immune System Modulator FTY720 (fingolimod) and is interestingly derived from a certain type of fungus called…
The latest findings in cancer treatments for the often fatal mesothelioma have scientists and researchers hopeful that they are one step closer in finding a consistent, effective treatment for the asbestos-caused cancer. The LUME-Meso Phase II trial for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma focused on the administration of the triple angiokinase inhibitor called Nintedanib. This oral…
On March 29, 2017 the U.S. Senate passed S. Res.98; a resolution designating the first week of April as “National Asbestos Awareness Week” in an attempt to warn and educate the public about asbestos exposure and its deadly health effects. Despite it being a known carcinogen and its ban in many countries, it is not…
Asbestosis, while not a cancerous condition, is serious and potentially life-threatening chronic disease that is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. A person who has been diagnosed with asbestosis has a much higher chance of developing lung cancer or pleural mesothelioma, a fatal cancer affecting the lining of the lungs. While not all asbestosis cases…
A new bill was approved by the U.S. House Judiciary Committee that could damage the asbestos claims process and prevent victims of asbestos-related diseases from ever seeing any sort of monetary compensation before they pass. The legislation is “H.R. 906” and is referred to as the “Furthering Asbestos Claims Transparency Act.” If this bill is…
The overall nutritional health of a patient suffering from mesothelioma can have major impact on how the patient will respond to treatment, which affects patient survival. To determine a patient’s nutritional factors on a more exact basis, researchers and scientists from Japan used a scoring system called Controlling Nutritional Status score, or CONUT. CONUT scores…
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is specifically caused by asbestos exposure. The cancer affects the lining surrounding various organs and cavities within the body called the mesothelium. Asbestos fibers, which are nearly invisible, sharp, and easily inhaled, become embedded in this soft tissue. The body is unable to break down or expel the…
The dangers of asbestos have affected thousands of residents in the small town of Libby, Montana for decades. In 1919, the town that was once known for its logging industry discovered vermiculite mines – a naturally occurring mineral that is useful for fire-proofing, wall and loft insulation, and even soil conditioning. W.R. Grace bought the…
Mesothelioma’s aggressive nature makes it difficult to treat with common cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. Scientists and researchers are constantly looking for new ways to treat mesothelioma outside of chemotherapy and radiation, such as gene therapy or immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a novel approach and sometimes a more viable option for those suffering from…
