Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.  There are three main types of mesothelioma: 

·         Pleural – affecting the lining of the lung, and the most commonly diagnosed.

·         Peritoneal – affecting the lining of the abdomen

·         Pericardial – affecting the lining of the heart

Due to a long latency period and symptoms mimicking other less serious illnesses, mesothelioma is almost always diagnosed in advanced stages.  To date, no cure for mesothelioma has been discovered.  Therefore, care centers around maintaining quality of life and decreasing pain and symptoms.

Understand that the median survival from time of diagnosis is 6-9 months.  At time of diagnosis, most mesothelioma patients are already experiencing loss of appetite, decreased physical ability, lack of sleep, and trouble breathing.  It’s important for patients and caregivers alike to know that if the cancer has reached an advanced stage where all appetite is lost and the body can not take in food and liquid to not try to force eating or stress over the lack of it.  Instead, at this stage, it is better to focus on palliative relief and comfort.

If, however, the asbestos cancer is not as advanced and prognosis is for longer, then following certain nutritional guidelines can help.  Eating smaller but high caloric, nutritious snacks and meals frequently throughout the day helps to keep strength and weight up.  Smaller meals are easier to digest as well.  Keep healthy, high protein snacks around that you really enjoy.  Drink plenty of fluids, but not before you eat as this has a tendency to make you feel full.  Drinking small sips throughout the day will help prevent dehydration, especially during treatment.  Avoid sodas, alcohol, greasy food, and any foods that cause discomfort. 

Seek out advice from a dietician or nurse as to what foods would be most nutritious as well as best tolerated by your body.  Most in and outpatient care facilities will have a pamphlet or handouts that offer great suggestions on how to ease the side effects of treatment that may affect your weight and appetite.  Good nutrition for patients and caregivers can help everyone to feel better on all levels- physical, mental, and emotional.  Eating well also helps to keep the immune system as strong as it can be, fighting off other infections and improving responses to treatments. 

For more information, visit the American Cancer Society website,  www.cancer.org, and look at their informational brochure Nutrition for the Person with Cancer or call 1-800-227-2345.