Recent reports revealed that a combination of Nivolumab and Ipilimumab immunotherapy treatments showed significant success in extending overall survival in patients diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. But there’s nothing quite like hearing the outcome directly from a patient like 69-year-old Michael Conway, who was part of the clinical trial. Speaking to his local newspaper in Milton
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects people exposed to asbestos. The disease strikes the mesothelium, an organ that lines many other organs in the body, allowing them to move freely next to one another without sticking. Though mesothelioma manifests most frequently in the pleural cavity where the lungs are contained, it
It has been well established that the most effective treatment for malignant mesothelioma is a multi-modality approach that attacks the disease in numerous ways. The challenge for researchers and physicians has been to identify the most effective combination that delivers safety and extended survival. A recent study conducted by researchers at the Princess Margaret Cancer
Pleural effusion is one of the most common symptoms faced by patients with malignant mesothelioma. It is a painful, difficulty breathing caused by an accumulation of fluid between the layers of organs around the lungs. The more fluid builds up, the harder and more painful it is to inhale. A recent study conducted by researchers
Most patients diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma are treated with a multi-modality protocol that combines surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Each modality’s use is adjusted based upon the specifics of the patient’s condition, and particular care is used with radiation because of its potential for damaging healthy tissue. But a collaborative group of radiology experts
Though malignant pleural mesothelioma remains one of the most challenging types of cancer to treat, physicians continue to refine surgical approaches and improve patient outcomes. A recently conducted retrospective study has confirmed the benefits of extended pleurectomy decortication as a surgical approach in the treatment of the rare, asbestos-related disease, indicating that patients who opt
After years of asbestos mining and use of the carcinogenic material in the construction of homes, buildings and infrastructure, Australia experiences an extraordinarily high percentage of its population affected by malignant mesothelioma. To address the high rates of the disease, the country invests in innovative research, including a clinical trial slated for 2021 that will
While much of the world remains locked down due to the COVID crisis, scientists and researchers continue their work, and that includes searching for a cure for malignant mesothelioma. In the last few weeks there have been notable breakthroughs, including the first FDA approval of a new drug in over a decade. This week, the
People whose lives have been impacted by malignant mesothelioma and other related diseases have long pushed for a ban on asbestos, the carcinogenic mineral that causes these deadly conditions. Despite previously having strong bipartisan backing, a scheduled vote on a ban has been delayed in the House of Representatives after two separate issues have caused
Asbestos use is declining, but exposure to this harmful material is still possible, especially in occupational settings. Many exposure victims have developed mesothelioma, but experts in abatement, prevention, medicine, and advocacy are helping these people and preventing future exposure. What Is Asbestos? A Brief History Asbestos is a group of minerals made of silicon and