Mesothelioma stages are assigned at the time of diagnosis. The stage describes the progression of the disease, and ranges from stage 1 through stage 4 with the latter being the most advanced and difficult to treat. Doctors use stage to estimate a prognosis for the patient and to help plan a course of treatment.
You will encounter several different mesothelioma care providers during the process of diagnosis and treatment. Physicians and specialists perform tests to make a diagnosis and plan and implement treatment. Nurses, social workers, therapists, and other care providers offer supportive care. Finding a Cancer Treatment Center for Mesothelioma Many, if not all, the care providers you
Asbestos has long been a danger for specific types of workers in construction and industrial jobs. New cases and research now indicate that there can be asbestos where you least expect it. New populations now at risk for mesothelioma include some teachers and people living near erionite deposits. Typical Asbestos “Danger Zones” Asbestos exposure can
Mesothelioma without asbestos exposure is rare but possible. Asbestos exposure is the number one risk factor and the most common underlying cause of mesothelioma. There are possible explanations for diagnoses without known exposure. What Causes Cancer? Mesothelioma, like most cancers, results from a combination of genetics and environmental exposures. The genetic factor may explain why
Emotional health and coping with mesothelioma are important aspects of care for patients. A diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma causes fear, anxiety, and worry. Friends and family, therapy, and mental health support help improve the emotional well-being of cancer patients. How Does Mesothelioma Affect Emotional and Mental Health? Malignant mesothelioma has a far-reaching effect on those diagnosed;
Unresectable mesothelioma is a diagnosis that means cancer cannot be treated surgically. These patients are not candidates for surgery because the cancer has spread too far throughout the body. Chemotherapy is the most typical treatment for unresectable mesothelioma. What Does “Unresectable” Mean? The word “unresectable” indicates that a tumor cannot be entirely removed from the
The genetic components of malignant mesothelioma are not well understood. Asbestos is the most important risk factor and cause of this cancer, but individual genetics likely also play a role. Can Mesothelioma Be Genetic and Hereditary? Although genes do not necessarily cause malignant mesothelioma, genetic factors influence cancer development after carcinogen exposure. Some people seem more
Knowing how best to help a loved one with mesothelioma is difficult. Treatments are expensive and uncomfortable, the prognosis is poor, and symptoms limit mobility. Loved ones can help by providing practical support as well as kindness and compassion. About Mesothelioma – What to Expect When a Loved One Is Diagnosed If you or a family member
A study published in the “Annals of Surgical Oncology” provides some encouraging news for patients facing a diagnosis of mesothelioma. Researchers have found that the way that insurance companies are reimbursing hospitals for a variety of treatments is actually improving outcomes in the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma. The study was conducted by surgical oncologists at
Nutrition and lifestyle for mesothelioma patients change after being diagnosed with this aggressive cancer. Mesothelioma patients benefit from a healthy diet, physical activity, and other positive lifestyle changes to feel better and support difficult treatments. Listen to Your Physician First and foremost, heed the advice of your doctor. If you have been prescribed specific dietary