mesothelioma resources

Radiation Therapy Options for Mesothelioma Patients

2009-11-10T19:57:00.001-08:00

Houston, Texas (Vocus/PRWEB ) November 9, 2009 -- Mesothelioma lecture on Tuesday November 10th, 2009, 5:30 pm CST, MesoCare.org is sponsoring a lecture by Veronica Garza of MD Anderson Medical Center on Radiation Therapy Options For Patients Suffering From Mesothelioma. Her lecture will be held at the International Rotary House on the MD Anderson main campus in Houston, Texas.

The meeting is open to family members, patients and health care providers currently affected by asbestos related disease such as Mesothelioma and Asbestos lung cancer. Free parking available. For those that can not attend in person, the lecture will also be available online and via teleconference. For additional information call (800) 877-6000. MesoCare.org is an advocacy group focused on assisting in the treatment and prevention of Mesothelioma patients, their family members and health care providers.

To learn more about our past lectures, you may view them at http://mesocare.org/video.html.

Screening for Malignant Pleural Mesothel

2009-11-04T18:09:00.000-08:00

Recently Dr. Harvey Pass of NYU Langone Medical Center in New York and Dr. Michelle Carbone of John A. Burns School of Medicine in Honolulu of published an update on screening for malignant pleural mesothelioma found on the Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery web site. The report stated that early detection of mesothelioma could find patients at a more treatable stage, resulting in prolonged survival over the present median of 12 months.

Past studies frequently used chest X-rays for screening patients. However, X-rays are not sensitive enough to effectively screen patients with mesothelioma. With the help of computerized tomography, more recent studies stress the importance of detailing suspicious changes which could provide an earlier diagnosis.

The most recent studies use serum biomarkers. These biomarkers may have the ability to distinguish people exposed to asbestos that do not have cancer from those with mesothelioma before the onset of the disease. The biomarker types include:

Soluble, mesothelin-related protein
Osteopontin
Megakaryocyte potentiating factor

These markers may be included in screening trials to monitor individuals exposed to asbestos and considered high-risk. Continued improvement in screening for asbestos diseases, particularly mesothelioma, is critical to the patient’s ability to receive proper treatment and care. More information on clinical trials can be found on our web site, or you may contact us to answer your questions.

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ProOnc Dx Cancer Diagnostics by Prometheus Laboratories Inc

2009-10-16T03:01:00.000-07:00

ProOnc TumorSource Dx identifies the tissue-of-origin of a metastatic tumor.

The test identifies 25 different tumor types, including colon, liver, brain,

breast, kidney, lung, ovary, pancreas, prostate and testis, and measures the

expression level of 48 microRNA biomarkers. ProOnc TumorSource Dx uses a

proprietary classifier to assign a primary site to the cancer sample based on

the microRNA expression in the tumor and may become a critical tool in the

detection of cancer of unknown primary (CUP).

ProOnc Squamous Dx classifies non-small cell lung carcinoma tumors into two
histological groups: cancers of squamous histology and non-squamous cancers.
The test measures the expression level of a squamous microRNA biomarker to
differentiate patients that have squamous cell carcinoma of the lung from
patients that have non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer.

ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx is a cutting-edge molecular diagnostic test that uses
microRNA to differentiate malignant pleural mesothelioma from peripheral
adenocarcinoma of the lung and metastatic carcinomas involving the lung and
pleura.

"MicroRNAs are small, non-coding sequences of RNA that are critically
important in many biological and pathological processes," said Harvey Pass,
M.D., Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Director of the Division of
Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Oncology at New York University Langone Medical
Center and its NYU Cancer Institute. "The sensitivity and specificity of
microRNA-based diagnostics should enable clinicians to differentiate
particular cancer tissues with increased confidence, which may ultimately
guide medical oncologists to deliver the safest and most efficacious therapy
for their patients."

For more information about ProOnc Dx tests, please call (877) 378-4919 or
visit www.prometheusoncology.com.

Prometheus acquired exclusive U.S. rights to ProOnc TumorSource Dx, ProOnc
Squamous Dx and ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx from Rosetta Genomics (Nasdaq: ROSG) in
April 2009. The tests are offered as miRview mets, miRview squamous and
miRview meso outside of the U.S. In addition, Prometheus and Rosetta are
collaborating to develop two new microRNA-based gastroenterology tests.

About Prometheus

Prometheus Laboratories Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical and diagnostic
company committed to developing and commercializing novel pharmaceutical and
diagnostic products to help physicians individualize patient care. Prometheus
is a leader in applying the principles of personalized medicine to the
diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and is applying these
principles to oncology. Its strategy includes the marketing and delivery of
pharmaceutical products complemented by proprietary diagnostic testing
services. By integrating pharmaceutical products and diagnostic testing
services, Prometheus believes it can address the full continuum of care,
thereby providing physicians with a comprehensive solution to treat chronic
diseases. Prometheus' corporate offices are located in San Diego.

ProOnc TumorSource Dx, ProOnc Squamous Dx and ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx are
trademarks of Prometheus Laboratories Inc. miRview mets, miRview squamous and
miRview meso are trademarks of Rosetta Genomics Ltd.

SOURCE Prometheus Laboratories Inc.

Pete De Spain, Director, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications of
Prometheus Laboratories Inc., +1-858-587-4117, pdespain@prometheuslabs.com; or
John F. Kouten, Chief Executive Officer of JFK Communications, Inc.,
+1-609-514-5117,

The toxic mineral asbestos

2009-10-16T02:58:00.001-07:00

The toxic mineral asbestos was widely used in various industries throughout the 20th century, including the automotive industry. Exposure to asbestos is linked to the development of serious illnesses including mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that typically affects the lining of the lungs.
Mesothelioma patients may take decades to demonstrate symptoms of the cancer, allowing it to progress and spread inside the body. Those who were exposed to asbestos while working in the automotive industry prior to the 1980s may only now begin to express mesothelioma symptoms.

Asbestos exposure often occurred in the automotive industry because the mineral was commonly used in many different auto parts including brake pads and linings, gaskets and hoodliners. Exposure occurs when the asbestos-containing materials are damaged, releasing toxic fibers into the air.

Once the particles are airborne, those nearby may inhale or ingest the fibers into the body where they may become lodged in organs or cavities. Overtime, inflammation or infection occurs and mesothelioma disease develops.

The danger of exposure in the automotive industry was heightened since the function of brakes and clutches hinge on abrasion, causing the constant release of toxic asbestos fibers. Asbestos particles are then trapped inside the brake housing or clutch space, released only when a worker replaces or repairs the part.

If a mechanic was exposed to asbestos on the job and wore work clothing home, family members and friends may also have been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos fibers were often transported into the homes of workers on their clothing, skin and hair.

Since 1940, an estimated 6 million mechanics have been exposed to asbestos in brakes, resulting in approximately 580 asbestos-related cancer deaths annually. Unfortunately this number is expected to rise as more workers exposed to asbestos begin to demonstrate symptoms of an asbestos-related illness.

Those who worked in the automotive industry are encouraged to schedule regular checkups with a doctor and inform a physician of previous exposure to asbestos. Though a cure does not exist, early diagnosis of mesothelioma may yield greater treatment options for mesothelioma patients.

Mesothelioma lawyer Tips before hiring a attorney

2009-10-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma cancer is a serious affair,’ says the mesothelioma lawyer. “Especially for those who are infected due to asbestos exposure and for the family members of the victim.”

The mesothelioma law suit is the answer to their prayers as treatment of mesothelioma is costly and drains out the resources of the person who is bed ridden and undergoing therapies in hope that this treatment could cure the ailment. The hiring of mesothelioma lawyer for the claim of compensation from the people responsible for the present health status is the only option left for the victim and their families.

Replying to question of the correspondent, on the sidelines of lawyers association meeting, the mesothelioma attorneys explain what question the victim of mesothelioma cancer should ask their lawyers before finally trusting them with the task of filing for compensation claim.

The questions which the lawyers suggested to be asked are:

a) About the legal options that are available to the patient t against the injuries received by the patient
due to his exposure to asbestos
b) The importance of the exposure, whether at the job site or at home?
c) Will it be easy to prove the irresponsibility of the asbestos company, where he was formerly employed.
d) How will the case be filed? Whether, in the form of a class action lawsuit with other patients? or as an
individual?
e) How will the cost, expanses and the fee will be paid?
f) How long will the lawsuit take to complete?

A selection of a specialized mesothelioma lawyer is the key point. Before selecting a lawyer, a meeting with the selected lawyer is essential, so that the guidelines be worked out, complications of the case be solved and a proper plan be set up for lodging the lawsuit.
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Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment Alert For Beer Prevent Cancer?

2009-10-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment Alert: Could Beer Prevent Cancer? t’s no secret that college kids love beer. But at Rice University, a group of students are taking their love for brew to another level.

The creators of “BioBeer” are working on a special formula that contains a chemical known as resveratrol, which has been shown to reduce cancer in laboratory animals. Also found in wine, resveratrol may also reduce heart disease.

Peter Nguyen, a Rice grad student, suggested that his team add resveratrol to beer as a joke. But after some discussion and research, team member Thomas Segall-Shapiro, a junior, thought “You know, we could actually do this.”

There is extensive research available on the effects of resveratrol, and a few research teams have previously attempted to genetically modify yeast (which is necessary for brewing beer) with resveratrol-related genes. So far, the Rice team has been focused on creating a genetically modified strain of yeast that will be used to ferment the beer while also producing resveratrol. The first few batches of beer brewed will likely contain some less-than-appetizing chemicals that are necessary for subsequent testing and experiements.

According to Segall-Shapiro, these chemical “markers” will be rid of before the beer is ready to drink. “In short, it will be a long time before anybody consumes any of this,” he stated.

The delay in brewing beer that’s ready to drink, said Segall-Shapiro, is due to the fact that “there’s only one genetically modified strain of yeast that’s ever been approved for use in beer, period.” This has prompted the Rice team to try and create a strain of their own.

Resveratrol is a naturally-occurring compound that, in some cases, may have anti-inflammatory effects, and may also prevent the development of cancer and heart disease. While studies of resveratrol have yet to be conducted on humans, many already take resveratrol in supplement form. In France, where resveratrol supplements are quite popular, some believe that resveratrol is a key part of the “French paradox,” or much-debated observation that the French in general experience lower rates of heart disease despite a diet known to be high in saturated fats.

For patients who may be predisposed to certain forms of cancers, resveratrol may be an important discovery. Individuals who have a history of breast cancer, for instance, or those who have been exposed to asbestos and are now considered to be at risk of developing mesothelioma cancer may one day benefit from resveratrol.

Mesothelioma is a fatal form of cancer caused exclusively by previous asbestos exposure. In the UK, thousands die from mesothelioma each year, as there is no known cure. Mesothelioma takes decades to develop and is particularly aggressive. While certain conventional cancer treatment methods, such as chemotherapy and the use of the drug Alimta® have been known to extend the life of some mesothelioma patients, oncologists like Dr. Robert Winter of Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, England continue to work towards finding a mesothelioma cure.

And while cures for various forms of cancer may be years away, the team at Rice University is doing their part to impact the future of cancer research and treatment. Rice faculty advisor Jonathan Silberg believes that the BioBeer team is gaining important skills for their future careers in the fields of genetics and biology.

Original story courtesy of the Rice University website.

mesothelioma diagnosed

2009-09-29T18:39:00.001-07:00

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. A CT scan is a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. In an MRI, a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures are viewed on a monitor and can also be printed.

A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples. If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument called a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.

If the diagnosis is mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. Staging involves more tests in a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.

Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.

Symptoms of mesothelioma

2009-09-29T18:38:00.001-07:00

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen.

Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis

Who is at increased risk for developing mesothelioma?

2009-09-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

Asbestos has been mined and used commercially since the late 1800s. Its use greatly increased during World War II. Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust. Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not known. However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and other tradespeople. Today, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.

The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily exposed develop asbestos-related diseases.
There is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.

Treat Back Pain Symptoms

2009-09-28T00:25:00.000-07:00

MUSCLE RELAXER - Take a muscle relaxant immediately after injuring your back or feeling extreme pain in your back.

Muscle relaxants such as pain relievers will actually help your lower back repair itself. When you injure your muscles in your back they tense up. If you take a muscle relaxant it allows the muscle to relax to its natural state faster and therefore heal faster.

If you feel extreme pain in your lower back and you did not do anything to injure it, it could be something more severe and you should go to the doctor or emergency room immediately if it does not go away.

If you need more information on how to treat lower back pain symptoms please look below in the Resources section below.

Lung Cancer resources

2009-07-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Smoking is by far the leading cause of lung cancer. Tobacco smoke causes more than 8 out of 10 cases of lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Tobacco products contain harmful carcinogens (cancer causing agents) that can damage the cells in the lungs. The longer a person has been smoking and the more cigarettes a day smoked, the greater the chances are of contracting lung cancer. Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke, which is called involuntary or passive smoking, can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer. If a person stops smoking before lung cancer develops, the lung tissue slowly returns to normal

Even though smoking is mostly responsible for causing lung cancer, it is not the sole cause of it. Asbestos exposure can also cause lung cancer. People who work with asbestos are already in danger of getting lung cancer, and by smoking, the risk is greatly increased. Although the manufacturing of asbestos has slowed down significantly due to government regulations, it is still present in some products and old buildings. However, if left undisturbed, asbestos poses no danger. Asbestos is only dangerous when it has been disturbed and its raw form (fibers) is released into the air and breathed in.

Mesothelioma Definitions

2009-07-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

The term Mesothelioma is used to describe a cancerous tumor that involves the “mosothelial” cells of an organ, usually the lungs, heart or abdominal organs.

Mesothelioma is classified into two types, pleural and peritoneal. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type and it is a very rare and aggressive form of lung cancer. The “pleura” is a thin membrane found between the lungs and the chest cavity, which serves as a lubricant to prevent the lungs from chafing against the chest walls. Peritoneal mesothelioma, although less common, is more invasive and therefore results in a shorter life expectancy for the patient. Mesotheliomas have also been found in other abdominal organs.

As with other types of cancer, there are benign and malignant mesothelioma. The most common of the two is by far the diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma. This particular type of tumor is very aggressive and invasive, spreading quickly over the surface of the lungs, abdominal organs or heart. Depending at which stage this disease is detected and the general health and strength of the patient, the life expectancy for the victims is between four and twenty-four months. The average person diagnosed with this aggressive type of tumor survives for between four and twelve months from the onset of symptoms. These symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and sleeping, pain in the chest and abdominal regions, progressive loss of weight and appetite and pleural effusions (fluid in the chest cavity). However, some victims have survived for several years with the proper treatment.