Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and more than one in four of all cancers diagnosed involve the lung. In the coming year, an estimated 160,000 lung cancer deaths are expected, surpassing all those due to breast, prostate and colon cancers combined. Mesothelioma is a form of non small cell lung cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, and carries the same poor prognosis and response to treatments.

 

Mesothelioma is caused when asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested into the body and lodge in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. The most common form of is malignant pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs. Exposure to asbestos is the only known risk factor for mesothelioma. There is a long latency period, ten to forty years, between time of exposure and development of symptoms.

 

Unfortunately due to the long latency period and the non-specific nature of the symptoms of mesothelioma, this lung cancer is not diagnosed until it has reached advanced stages. Although much research is being conducted, no cure has been discovered and the only way to avoid getting mesothelioma is to avoid all contact with asbestos.

 

Most patients diagnosed with mesothelioma are past fifty years old, having been exposed decades earlier either occupationally, environmentally or second-hand. Many patients have histories of working where asbestos containing products were manufactured or used, such as mines, mills, factories, ships, etc. Trades that hold the highest risk are ship repair, automotive repair, boilermaking, construction, pipefitting, and firefighting.

 

Non small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) grow more slowly and tend to take longer to spread to other areas beyond the lung. Despite this, they also tend to be more difficult to treat, especially if not diagnosed until later stages. In advanced stages, there is no cure and treatment focuses on palliative relief.  

 

Palliative treatment focuses on using medications, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy to relieve the painful symptoms of mesothelioma with the goal being to prolong survival and improve quality of life. Because the symptoms of mesothelioma can be frightening and painful, anything that reduces suffering and anxiety is highly recommended. 

 

If you or someone you know have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, consult with a palliative specialist or hospice nurse to see what is available to help provide symptom relief. For optimum care and comfort, apply all efforts to treat the pain and any other symptoms before they become too distressing,

 

Realize that many others are also going through the same experience fo dealing with lung cancer, and reach out for support if this would help. Find out as much as you can about your particular type of mesothelioma and ask if there are any clinical trials you can participate in that might help you and others to come. Check back here for regular articles about best treatments and newest discoveries for managing mesothelioma.