SUFFERERS of the asbestos-linked disease mesothelioma will have access to cheap treatment from today, after a long campaign to secure federal government subsidy paid off.
The government says the chemotherapy agent Alimta - the only treatment available specifically for the killer cancer of the lung or stomach lining - will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from today.
Health Minister Nicola Roxon said the listing of Alimta was an important announcement that followed the "tireless campaigning" of Bernie Banton, who died, aged 61, in November from the disease.
"Bernie was a great Australian hero and it is due to his efforts that many people will understand the significance of this decision," she said.
About 600 Australians are diagnosed annually with mesothelioma, but the long lag time between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms means its prevalence is tipped to rise in the future.
Medical studies have estimated 18,000 people will have become victims of the disease by 2020.
Alimta, which can increase survival time and improve a sufferer's quality of life, has been out of reach for many patients at $20,000 or more for six treatments.
From today, sufferers will pay a maximum of $31.30 for each prescription. Eligible concession-patients will pay $5 for each prescription.
The subsidy will cost the government about $26 million annually and is expected to benefit about 300 people a year.
The listing of the drug became an election issue after Mr Banton criticised then health minister Tony Abbott for failing to personally receive a 17,000-signature petition brought to his Sydney electoral office in October.
Mr Abbott was forced into an embarrassing apology after questioning whether the dying campaigner's motives for speaking out were "pure of heart".
A week later, a government-appointed board recommended the drug be added to the PBS after three times rejecting its listing since 2004.
Mr Abbott bypassed the normal process of cabinet approval by immediately announcing the drug's listing.
Until now, only about half of Australians suffering mesothelioma were getting easy access to the palliative care drug through state government subsidy and workplace compensation schemes.
source:http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,22993459-5005962,00.html
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
A little bit of hope
Symptoms of incurable lung disease mesothelioma include chest pain, persistent cough and breathlessness. Photograph: Frank Baron
The last three months were the happiest of Arthur's life, because he put his whole life into them. You can't put a price on that."
Cora Tiffin lost her husband, Arthur, to lung disease mesothelioma. She attributes his final three months to taking the drug Alimta.
"The treatment keeps people going longer," says Tiffin. "It doesn't work for everyone but everyone should have the opportunity to try it. What other treatments have we got?
"When Arthur was diagnosed with mesothelioma, it was heartbreaking. But all of a sudden, with Alimta, there was a little bit of hope."
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer affecting the lung lining, is most commonly caused by asbestos and is most prevalent among construction workers who handled asbestos in the 1950s and 1960s before the dangers of the fibrous material were widely known. Set to peak by 2015 with UK cases reaching 2,000 a year, 60,000 cases are expected between now and 2050.
Alimta is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to tackle the incurable disease. It is reported to significantly extend life expectancy and helps to relieve symptoms including breathlessness, chest pain, persistent cough and loss of appetite. It is available in some areas of the UK, but it is not widely prescribed on the NHS.
Last month, an appeal was held into the decision by the medicines watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), to license Alimta. The hearing is the latest hurdle in a long battle to help mesothelioma patients access the drug on the NHS.
Nice decided against licensing Alimta on the NHS in June 2006 but then reversed its decision following an appeal in October 2006, recommending the drug for treatment of patients in the most advanced stages of the disease.
The Alimta lobby - including manufacturers Eli Lilly and 14 patient and support groups - was delighted with the victory, having lobbied hard for almost two years.
But the appeal – brought by Birmingham north and east primary care trust, the Royal College of Physicians and the Association for Cancer Physicians - could result in a new decision to restrict Alimta prescriptions.
Nice, which holds its annual conference this week, must decide whether expensive but effective drugs such as Alimta should be funded out of the NHS budget. In some cases, it has taken the controversial decision that a drug is not financially viable, or even possible, to be licensed.
Alimta is available in most other European countries and was approved in the US by the Food and Drink Authority in February 2004.
But in the UK, even if Nice upholds its decision at the appeal, the process will delay final guidance further and causes disappointment for patients and support groups whose access to the drug is now further postponed or potentially restricted.
Nice's appraisal of Alimta has involved 46 stakeholders, including the Department of Health, two primary care trusts, Eli Lilly, charities and patient support groups. But it will not be known until the day of the hearing which of them has brought the appeal against Nice's decision.
Jeremy Steele, a consultant oncologist who has supported the campaign for Alimta to become available on the NHS, said: "It's a great shame that a small issue around cost will now delay patients' access to the drug further. This has been such a slow and frustrating process.
"The appeal panel was very fair and pointed out that the grounds of the appeals were not based on anything fundamental.
"I'm confident that the drug will still be recommended by Nice, but access for patients will now be at least several months away.
source:http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2007/dec/03/cancer.drug
The last three months were the happiest of Arthur's life, because he put his whole life into them. You can't put a price on that."
Cora Tiffin lost her husband, Arthur, to lung disease mesothelioma. She attributes his final three months to taking the drug Alimta.
"The treatment keeps people going longer," says Tiffin. "It doesn't work for everyone but everyone should have the opportunity to try it. What other treatments have we got?
"When Arthur was diagnosed with mesothelioma, it was heartbreaking. But all of a sudden, with Alimta, there was a little bit of hope."
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer affecting the lung lining, is most commonly caused by asbestos and is most prevalent among construction workers who handled asbestos in the 1950s and 1960s before the dangers of the fibrous material were widely known. Set to peak by 2015 with UK cases reaching 2,000 a year, 60,000 cases are expected between now and 2050.
Alimta is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to tackle the incurable disease. It is reported to significantly extend life expectancy and helps to relieve symptoms including breathlessness, chest pain, persistent cough and loss of appetite. It is available in some areas of the UK, but it is not widely prescribed on the NHS.
Last month, an appeal was held into the decision by the medicines watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), to license Alimta. The hearing is the latest hurdle in a long battle to help mesothelioma patients access the drug on the NHS.
Nice decided against licensing Alimta on the NHS in June 2006 but then reversed its decision following an appeal in October 2006, recommending the drug for treatment of patients in the most advanced stages of the disease.
The Alimta lobby - including manufacturers Eli Lilly and 14 patient and support groups - was delighted with the victory, having lobbied hard for almost two years.
But the appeal – brought by Birmingham north and east primary care trust, the Royal College of Physicians and the Association for Cancer Physicians - could result in a new decision to restrict Alimta prescriptions.
Nice, which holds its annual conference this week, must decide whether expensive but effective drugs such as Alimta should be funded out of the NHS budget. In some cases, it has taken the controversial decision that a drug is not financially viable, or even possible, to be licensed.
Alimta is available in most other European countries and was approved in the US by the Food and Drink Authority in February 2004.
But in the UK, even if Nice upholds its decision at the appeal, the process will delay final guidance further and causes disappointment for patients and support groups whose access to the drug is now further postponed or potentially restricted.
Nice's appraisal of Alimta has involved 46 stakeholders, including the Department of Health, two primary care trusts, Eli Lilly, charities and patient support groups. But it will not be known until the day of the hearing which of them has brought the appeal against Nice's decision.
Jeremy Steele, a consultant oncologist who has supported the campaign for Alimta to become available on the NHS, said: "It's a great shame that a small issue around cost will now delay patients' access to the drug further. This has been such a slow and frustrating process.
"The appeal panel was very fair and pointed out that the grounds of the appeals were not based on anything fundamental.
"I'm confident that the drug will still be recommended by Nice, but access for patients will now be at least several months away.
source:http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2007/dec/03/cancer.drug
Thursday, December 27, 2007
MESOTHELIOMA SYMPTOMS: PLEURAL AND PERITONEAL MESOTHELIOMA CLINICAL SYMPTOMS
Pleural Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms for pleural mesothelioma may include:
Shortness of breath
Pleural mesothelioma inhibits the ability of the lungs to expand and contract. This can make it difficult to breathe normally. Shortness of breath is a mesothelioma clinical symptom often first experienced when taking steps, or performing light physical activity. Physical tasks that were once performed easily now can cause significant shortness of breath, also known as "dyspnea".
Chest or pleural pain (such as experienced with pleuritis - fluid in the lungs)
Pain often caused by accumulation of pleural fluid (pleural effusion) is another mesothelioma symptom. One of the first steps normally taken in the hospital is the draining of the pleural fluid to relieve the pressure in the chest. Several liters of fluid can typically be drained from the chest, and the fluid may be tested as the first diagnostic technique used to determine if mesothelioma exists. Unfortunately, pleural fluid tends to re-accumulate, causing the chest discomfort and pain to reoccur.
Cough
Patients often report a chronic or persistent coughing as a clinical symptom of mesothelioma.
Weakness
A commonly reported mesothelioma symptom is weakness or malaise.
Loss of weight or appetite
Mesothelioma patients often report as a symptom that they have lost their appetite and are losing weight. This may be caused by the spread of the disease and its effect on other organs.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms for peritoneal mesothelioma may include:
Abdominal Pain
Peritoneal mesothelioma usually invades the abdominal cavity and causes pain associated with nerves and affected abdominal organs.
Cramping or Diarrhea
The cancer in the peritoneum may affect abdominal organs thereby impairing the ability to have normal bowel movements. The cancer may also cause bowel obstruction.
Inability to Eat
A clinical symptom of mesothelioma reported by many people with peritoneal mesothelioma is the inability to eat. Eating may be painful because of the location of the cancer, and there may also be a severe loss of appetite.
If a person has the symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to consult a qualified mesothelioma doctor. Mesothelioma symptoms can mean severe pain and suffering. Under the law of most states, pain and suffering from symptoms may be compensated through the award of money damages, usually with the help of an asbestos attorney. Litigation affords people who have suffered symptoms from mesothelioma the opportunity to receive financial compensation and hold the companies accountable for having caused the asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma lawsuits require the assistance of an experienced asbestos cancer attorney.
source:http://www.lpklaw.com/mesothelioma-symptoms.php
Mesothelioma symptoms for pleural mesothelioma may include:
Shortness of breath
Pleural mesothelioma inhibits the ability of the lungs to expand and contract. This can make it difficult to breathe normally. Shortness of breath is a mesothelioma clinical symptom often first experienced when taking steps, or performing light physical activity. Physical tasks that were once performed easily now can cause significant shortness of breath, also known as "dyspnea".
Chest or pleural pain (such as experienced with pleuritis - fluid in the lungs)
Pain often caused by accumulation of pleural fluid (pleural effusion) is another mesothelioma symptom. One of the first steps normally taken in the hospital is the draining of the pleural fluid to relieve the pressure in the chest. Several liters of fluid can typically be drained from the chest, and the fluid may be tested as the first diagnostic technique used to determine if mesothelioma exists. Unfortunately, pleural fluid tends to re-accumulate, causing the chest discomfort and pain to reoccur.
Cough
Patients often report a chronic or persistent coughing as a clinical symptom of mesothelioma.
Weakness
A commonly reported mesothelioma symptom is weakness or malaise.
Loss of weight or appetite
Mesothelioma patients often report as a symptom that they have lost their appetite and are losing weight. This may be caused by the spread of the disease and its effect on other organs.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms for peritoneal mesothelioma may include:
Abdominal Pain
Peritoneal mesothelioma usually invades the abdominal cavity and causes pain associated with nerves and affected abdominal organs.
Cramping or Diarrhea
The cancer in the peritoneum may affect abdominal organs thereby impairing the ability to have normal bowel movements. The cancer may also cause bowel obstruction.
Inability to Eat
A clinical symptom of mesothelioma reported by many people with peritoneal mesothelioma is the inability to eat. Eating may be painful because of the location of the cancer, and there may also be a severe loss of appetite.
If a person has the symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to consult a qualified mesothelioma doctor. Mesothelioma symptoms can mean severe pain and suffering. Under the law of most states, pain and suffering from symptoms may be compensated through the award of money damages, usually with the help of an asbestos attorney. Litigation affords people who have suffered symptoms from mesothelioma the opportunity to receive financial compensation and hold the companies accountable for having caused the asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma lawsuits require the assistance of an experienced asbestos cancer attorney.
source:http://www.lpklaw.com/mesothelioma-symptoms.php
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
How is Mesothelioma Cancer Treated?
Treatment for mesothelioma cancer depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.
* Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma cancer. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
* Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
* Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
Are New Treatments for Mesothelioma Cancer Being Studied?
Yes. Because mesothelioma is very hard to control, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is sponsoring clinical trials (research studies with people) that are designed to find new treatments and better ways to use current treatments. Before any new treatment can be recommended for general use, doctors conduct clinical trials to find out whether the treatment is safe for patients and effective against the disease. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients with mesothelioma.
source:http://www.emaxhealth.com/111/3045.html
Treatment for mesothelioma cancer depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.
* Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma cancer. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
* Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
* Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
Are New Treatments for Mesothelioma Cancer Being Studied?
Yes. Because mesothelioma is very hard to control, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is sponsoring clinical trials (research studies with people) that are designed to find new treatments and better ways to use current treatments. Before any new treatment can be recommended for general use, doctors conduct clinical trials to find out whether the treatment is safe for patients and effective against the disease. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients with mesothelioma.
source:http://www.emaxhealth.com/111/3045.html
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
More Information On Mesothelioma Cases
The Minnesota Department of Health has released updated information about the 58 cases of mesothelioma in Minnesota. Now they know that 1/4 of the workers had been employed in the mines for less than a year. And over 1/4 of them had worked there for more than 30 years. They also know that most of the cases developed after 30 years, with a handful developing after 60 years. Also, the cases showed up in workers who had been employed at six of the seven active mines during that period. Inland Steel, now known as Minorca, was the only exception. And only three of the cases included people who had worked at the Conwed plant in Cloquet, where asbestos ceiling tiles were manufactured.
All of the cases of the deadly lung cancer have been in men, and all have been fatal. 72,000 miners worked in the mines between the 1930s and 1980s.
This information will be used in three critical health studies, on Iron Range miners. The University of Minnesota is spearheading the studies, along with the health department.
source:http://www.wdio.com/article/stories/S278604.shtml?cat=10363
All of the cases of the deadly lung cancer have been in men, and all have been fatal. 72,000 miners worked in the mines between the 1930s and 1980s.
This information will be used in three critical health studies, on Iron Range miners. The University of Minnesota is spearheading the studies, along with the health department.
source:http://www.wdio.com/article/stories/S278604.shtml?cat=10363
How many will die before the mesothelioma dust settles? -- Connie Schultz
t happens in large families all the time: Parents organize kids by age and ability and divvy up the chores.
Kati Maloney was the second-oldest daughter of eight, and her job was the laundry. Week after week, she gathered and sorted the clothes in the family's basement on Cleveland's West Side.
Her father's work clothes took extra effort. She'd grab one shirt at a time, turn her head and shake. With every snap, dust particles from asbestos filled the air.
Week after week, Kati breathed in the dust.
Four decades later, Kati couldn't breathe anymore.
Kathleen Maloney LoPresti died at 55 from mesothelioma, the same asbestos-related disease that killed her father and her uncle. Unlike her dad, she never worked directly with the deadly "magic mineral." But she took good enough care of him for it to kill her anyway.
The question looms: How many more Kati's are there?
"We know the secondary victims of asbestos are out there," said Dr. Pasi Janne, a thoracic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and one of Kati's doctors. "We don't know how many there are, and we don't know yet if they're mostly women."
It may be getting easier to connect the dots from what we do know.
So far, mostly white, male laborers get mesothelioma, Janne said. They were the guys who got the better-paying, often union, jobs that exposed them to asbestos, which also increased their chances of lung cancer.
source:http://www.cleveland.com/living/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/living-0/1196848097226460.xml&coll=2
Kati Maloney was the second-oldest daughter of eight, and her job was the laundry. Week after week, she gathered and sorted the clothes in the family's basement on Cleveland's West Side.
Her father's work clothes took extra effort. She'd grab one shirt at a time, turn her head and shake. With every snap, dust particles from asbestos filled the air.
Week after week, Kati breathed in the dust.
Four decades later, Kati couldn't breathe anymore.
Kathleen Maloney LoPresti died at 55 from mesothelioma, the same asbestos-related disease that killed her father and her uncle. Unlike her dad, she never worked directly with the deadly "magic mineral." But she took good enough care of him for it to kill her anyway.
The question looms: How many more Kati's are there?
"We know the secondary victims of asbestos are out there," said Dr. Pasi Janne, a thoracic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and one of Kati's doctors. "We don't know how many there are, and we don't know yet if they're mostly women."
It may be getting easier to connect the dots from what we do know.
So far, mostly white, male laborers get mesothelioma, Janne said. They were the guys who got the better-paying, often union, jobs that exposed them to asbestos, which also increased their chances of lung cancer.
source:http://www.cleveland.com/living/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/living-0/1196848097226460.xml&coll=2
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Boston Mesothelioma Lawyer Michael Shepard Educates On Asbestos Cancer
Mesothelioma Cancer Lawyer through his online presence educates people on the harmful effects of asbestos on their health. The website creats awareness among the public in general and the patients of Mesothelioma Cancer in particular about the causes of Mesothelioma Cancer, its treatment, centers, options and guiding the patients on how to select a medical professional.
With around 8 million citizens of USA exposed to asbestos particles and the number of such people growing, the Boston lawyer through its website, explains the rights of the people affected from this lethal illness, for filing claims of compensation. The lawyer in his website suggests that “Anyone who was injured as a result of their exposure to asbestos has a potential legal claim against the manufacturers of asbestos products. This can be significant for several reasons. The medical costs associated with treating a disease such as Mesothelioma can be staggering.”

Besides creating awareness about the killer disease the attorney also explain that filing a claim for compensation as soon as it is diagnosed is essential as all the states have statue of limitation for filing a claim and such time limitation starts as soon as Mesothelioma Cancer is diagnosed. The patients’ sufferings from Mesothelioma cancer are the best witness, there cases can be taken up faster, they can plead their cases which can result is early settlement of compensation claims.
Working on contingency fee bases the lawyer assures that in case no compensation is awarded to the patients suffering from Mesothelioma cancer, the patients would not be liable to pay any fee for the services of Mesothelioma Cancer lawyer.
Visiting this educative online resource not only helps patient of Mesothelioma Cancer to learn about the causes of this illness but it also helps them in finding treatment and seeking compensation the pain and suffering caused by the use of asbestos.
source:http://www.transworldnews.com/NewsStory.aspx?id=28902&cat=10
With around 8 million citizens of USA exposed to asbestos particles and the number of such people growing, the Boston lawyer through its website, explains the rights of the people affected from this lethal illness, for filing claims of compensation. The lawyer in his website suggests that “Anyone who was injured as a result of their exposure to asbestos has a potential legal claim against the manufacturers of asbestos products. This can be significant for several reasons. The medical costs associated with treating a disease such as Mesothelioma can be staggering.”

Besides creating awareness about the killer disease the attorney also explain that filing a claim for compensation as soon as it is diagnosed is essential as all the states have statue of limitation for filing a claim and such time limitation starts as soon as Mesothelioma Cancer is diagnosed. The patients’ sufferings from Mesothelioma cancer are the best witness, there cases can be taken up faster, they can plead their cases which can result is early settlement of compensation claims.
Working on contingency fee bases the lawyer assures that in case no compensation is awarded to the patients suffering from Mesothelioma cancer, the patients would not be liable to pay any fee for the services of Mesothelioma Cancer lawyer.
Visiting this educative online resource not only helps patient of Mesothelioma Cancer to learn about the causes of this illness but it also helps them in finding treatment and seeking compensation the pain and suffering caused by the use of asbestos.
source:http://www.transworldnews.com/NewsStory.aspx?id=28902&cat=10
LegalView Updates Mesothelioma Site with Reports of Controversial Asbestos Clean-Up Method
The number one source for everything legal on the Web, recently reported on its mesothelioma blog that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has authorized the use of a controversial method for asbestos cleanup and disposal. The cleanup was to be conducted at an apartment complex in Fort Worth, Texas using the controversial process is known as the "wet method" and consists of a building being doused with a foam substance. The building or structure is then torn down. The wet foam is used, in theory, to prevent asbestos dust and particles from being kicked up during the deconstruction of the building. The destroyed structure will then be carted off to a landfill that is authorized to hold asbestos contaminants. LegalView reported this new development on its mesothelioma blog. Additionally, LegalView offers mesothelioma victims continually updated news on mesothelioma treatments as well as how to recognize the symptoms of asbestos exposure and what to do about it. LegalView also presents a variety of ways to reach experienced mesothelioma attorneys in a mesothelioma law firm that have expertise on how to file a mesothelioma lawsuit.

There are several ways that asbestos can be removed but the wet method has been continually debated and several watchdog organizations have expressed their concerns with the demolition of the vacant 2,200 square-foot apartment complex. While concerns exist, according to news reports, not enough support from the environmental watchdog groups was garnered to halt the wet method testing on the complex. However, for those living in the area or anyone who feels that they may have been previously exposed to asbestos, contact a mesothelioma lawyer, who will be able to offer advice on what should be done if a mesothelioma diagnosis occurs.
LegalView continues to provide the most relevant developments on asbestos and mesothelioma, offering its readers a large compilation of resources and information at its mesothelioma information portal. In addition to news on mesothelioma, LegalView also addresses several other important legal issues affecting Americans today. These include traumatic brain injury, construction accident injury and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). Everyday thousands of Americans are adversely affected by a brain injury accident and have no where to turn, which is why LegalView created its brain injury information portal to provide victims with newsfeeds on the topic as well as information on contacting a brain injury law firm. NSF is also a rare illness for which LegalView provides victims resources, as there are several hundred victims worldwide from this disease usually linked to the use of medical dyes while treating kidney disease. Users of the LegalView site will discover an outlet for their pain and suffering at the NSF information portal as well as updates on NSF jury verdicts and NSF lawsuits. Victims will also be able to locate a Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis attorney specializing in the illness. LegalView understands that unforeseen accidents occur, but it tries to offer victims a site where they can easily access resources to help them through their difficulties.
source:http://www.openpr.com/news/34046/LegalView-Updates-Mesothelioma-Site-with-Reports-of-Controversial-Asbestos-Clean-Up-Method.html

There are several ways that asbestos can be removed but the wet method has been continually debated and several watchdog organizations have expressed their concerns with the demolition of the vacant 2,200 square-foot apartment complex. While concerns exist, according to news reports, not enough support from the environmental watchdog groups was garnered to halt the wet method testing on the complex. However, for those living in the area or anyone who feels that they may have been previously exposed to asbestos, contact a mesothelioma lawyer, who will be able to offer advice on what should be done if a mesothelioma diagnosis occurs.
LegalView continues to provide the most relevant developments on asbestos and mesothelioma, offering its readers a large compilation of resources and information at its mesothelioma information portal. In addition to news on mesothelioma, LegalView also addresses several other important legal issues affecting Americans today. These include traumatic brain injury, construction accident injury and Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF). Everyday thousands of Americans are adversely affected by a brain injury accident and have no where to turn, which is why LegalView created its brain injury information portal to provide victims with newsfeeds on the topic as well as information on contacting a brain injury law firm. NSF is also a rare illness for which LegalView provides victims resources, as there are several hundred victims worldwide from this disease usually linked to the use of medical dyes while treating kidney disease. Users of the LegalView site will discover an outlet for their pain and suffering at the NSF information portal as well as updates on NSF jury verdicts and NSF lawsuits. Victims will also be able to locate a Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis attorney specializing in the illness. LegalView understands that unforeseen accidents occur, but it tries to offer victims a site where they can easily access resources to help them through their difficulties.
source:http://www.openpr.com/news/34046/LegalView-Updates-Mesothelioma-Site-with-Reports-of-Controversial-Asbestos-Clean-Up-Method.html
Thursday, December 6, 2007
What is Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer affecting the abdominal cavity, chest cavity, and the region surrounding the heart.
Due to its uncommon nature, mesothelioma is typically difficult to diagnose and treat. It has been connected with exposure to asbestos, a material formerly present in many work environments. Only about 3,000 individuals are diagnosed annually.
Individuals with a history of extended asbestos exposure are at the highest risk for developing malignant mesothelioma. Even a small exposure to this cancer-causing material can result in malignant mesothelioma. However, mesothelioma has a latency of up to thirty-forty years, and many individuals previously exposed to asbestos are now displaying symptoms. This means the average age of mesothelioma patients is between 50 and 70 years. Men are typically affected more, due to the common presence of asbestos in industrial settings.
There are three major types of malignant mesothelioma . epithelial, sarcomatoid, and mixed. Epithelial mesothelioma is most common. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to respiratory distress, a lasting cough, and pneumonia. In addition, symptoms are often mistaken for less serious ailments, and many patients do not show any signs at all.
Source:http://www.1888articles.com/what-is-mesothelioma-09tq26ls87.html
Due to its uncommon nature, mesothelioma is typically difficult to diagnose and treat. It has been connected with exposure to asbestos, a material formerly present in many work environments. Only about 3,000 individuals are diagnosed annually.
Individuals with a history of extended asbestos exposure are at the highest risk for developing malignant mesothelioma. Even a small exposure to this cancer-causing material can result in malignant mesothelioma. However, mesothelioma has a latency of up to thirty-forty years, and many individuals previously exposed to asbestos are now displaying symptoms. This means the average age of mesothelioma patients is between 50 and 70 years. Men are typically affected more, due to the common presence of asbestos in industrial settings.
There are three major types of malignant mesothelioma . epithelial, sarcomatoid, and mixed. Epithelial mesothelioma is most common. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to respiratory distress, a lasting cough, and pneumonia. In addition, symptoms are often mistaken for less serious ailments, and many patients do not show any signs at all.
Source:http://www.1888articles.com/what-is-mesothelioma-09tq26ls87.html
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
In most cases, people usually ignore the symptoms of Mesothelioma due to their generic nature. This is because the early symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indication of other common diseases. Furthermore, researches have concluded that a patient with prior exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma much later in his/her life, i.e. after 20 to 40 years of asbestos encounter. Thus, many patients disregard the possibility of developing mesothelioma due to something that happened much earlier in their lives.
Mesothelioma is a cancer in which the protective linings of the body’s internal organs get affected by malignant cells. These linings include:
•Pleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity;
•Peritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and
•Pericardium: a sac holding the heart.
The symptoms of mesothelioma affecting these organs can vary due to the special nature and functions of the organs. Some of these symptoms are severe, and also some of the symptoms are rare. It is, therefore, recommended to contact a physician if the symptoms prevail.
Additionally, if mesothelioma is detected at early stages, the chances for a possible cure are high.
Following are the symptoms of mesothelioma, categorized by types:
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Shortness of breath
•Coughing up blood
•Pain in chest
•Pleural effusions (fluid accumulation in the lung lining)
•Back pain
•Hoarseness
•Weakness
•Problem in swallowing
•Loss of appetite
•Weight loss
•Excessive coughing
•Swelling
•Paralysis
•Fever
In severe cases, a pleural mesothelioma patient can develop pneumothorax or lung cancer (lung failure). Nonetheless, some patients may show almost no symptoms.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Swelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen
•Weight Loss
•Abdominal pain
•Bowel obstruction
•Blood clots
•Fever
•Nausea
•Vomiting
•Hernia
Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Chest pain
•Shortness of breath
•Cough
•Unusual heart beating
•Irregular breathing patterns
These symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indications of other minor diseases. However, if diagnosed soon, these symptoms can help the doctors to cure the cancer at a primitive stage. Remember that only a doctor can confirm the presence of mesothelioma by examining medical reports, asbestos exposure history, MRI and/or CT scan. In some cases, a needle biopsy can also be conducted.
Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Symptoms-of-Mesothelioma&id=598070
Mesothelioma is a cancer in which the protective linings of the body’s internal organs get affected by malignant cells. These linings include:
•Pleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity;
•Peritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and
•Pericardium: a sac holding the heart.
The symptoms of mesothelioma affecting these organs can vary due to the special nature and functions of the organs. Some of these symptoms are severe, and also some of the symptoms are rare. It is, therefore, recommended to contact a physician if the symptoms prevail.
Additionally, if mesothelioma is detected at early stages, the chances for a possible cure are high.
Following are the symptoms of mesothelioma, categorized by types:
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Shortness of breath
•Coughing up blood
•Pain in chest
•Pleural effusions (fluid accumulation in the lung lining)
•Back pain
•Hoarseness
•Weakness
•Problem in swallowing
•Loss of appetite
•Weight loss
•Excessive coughing
•Swelling
•Paralysis
•Fever
In severe cases, a pleural mesothelioma patient can develop pneumothorax or lung cancer (lung failure). Nonetheless, some patients may show almost no symptoms.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Swelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen
•Weight Loss
•Abdominal pain
•Bowel obstruction
•Blood clots
•Fever
•Nausea
•Vomiting
•Hernia
Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:
•Chest pain
•Shortness of breath
•Cough
•Unusual heart beating
•Irregular breathing patterns
These symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indications of other minor diseases. However, if diagnosed soon, these symptoms can help the doctors to cure the cancer at a primitive stage. Remember that only a doctor can confirm the presence of mesothelioma by examining medical reports, asbestos exposure history, MRI and/or CT scan. In some cases, a needle biopsy can also be conducted.
Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Symptoms-of-Mesothelioma&id=598070
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