What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a highly aggressive form of cancer that is usually resistant to standard cancer treatments. While there is no cure for mesothelioma, various clinical trials are studying the disease and several cases of remission have been reported. In addition, treatments are available that are effective at easing pain, suffering and symptoms, extending life expectancy and generally improving a patient’s quality of life.
Most mesothelioma patients may not even realize they have cancer until symptoms start to interfere with their daily lives. Symptoms generally don’t appear until at least 20 years after someone was exposed to asbestos, and sometimes symptoms are hidden for as long as 50 years.
Who Gets Mesothelioma?
People believed to be in the high risk category for getting mesothelioma are those who were exposed to asbestos on a regular basis (six months or more) while on the job. Among the list of occupations closely linked to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases are:
- Military veterans (especially the U.S. Navy)
- Construction workers
- Demolition or renovation crews
- Auto mechanics
- Insulators
- Shipyard workers
- Asbestos mine workers or millers
- Boiler workers
- Asbestos manufacturing plant workers
What Causes Mesothelioma?
In most cases, mesothelioma can be linked to a history of asbestos exposure, which may occur in the environment, in the workplace or from certain products. If asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, the fibers can lodge in the lining of the lungs or other internal organs, causing chronic inflammation and mesothelioma, in some cases.
How is Mesothelioma Treated?
The choice of treatment for mesothelioma depends on many factors, including the location of tumors, the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, treatment history and the type of mesothelioma. Treatment generally consists of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, alternative treatments or some combination of therapies.
Treatment Options Types of Mesothelioma Stages of Mesothelioma
How Do I Pay for Treatment?
If diagnosed with mesothelioma, individuals should consider taking the necessary steps to protect themselves both legally and financially. Mesothelioma treatment is very expensive, and insurance companies may not always cover the cost of experimental treatments or certain diagnostic tests that may be recommended by a specialist. Patients who do not have medical insurance will face an even harder battle.
In some cases, financial assistance may be available to patients who were wrongfully exposed to asbestos while on the job. Some corporations have set up trust funds specifically for people injured by their asbestos products. Additionally, veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces between 1940 and 1970 may be eligible for Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits that cover asbestos-related diseases.
Can I Live With Mesothelioma?
While mesothelioma is known to be an aggressive cancer, it is not necessarily resistant to treatment. Some mesothelioma patients have lived for many years with the disease, learning to manage symptoms using a personalized treatment plan that works in their situation.
Those who have lived with this disease often talk about the importance of managing stress and other treatment-related worries in a healthy way.
10 Ways to Feel Better with Mesothelioma
- Exercise regularly
- Practice yoga
- Try acupuncture
- Eat right
- Take supplements
- Meditate
- Get a massage
- Find a support group
- Discover pet therapy
- Visit a chiropractor
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