Mesothelioma is one of the most dangerous kinds of cancer and in most cases, patients face a terminal prognosis. In a recent report published in Science Daily, there are two groundbreaking trials that may give hope to Mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. While “waiting for a cure” is not an option for most patients, the possibility of a new treatment option is hopeful.
According to the report, University of Leiscester researchers are spearheading two major trials to treat mesothelioma, a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Our Massachusetts mesothelioma attorneys are dedicated to helping victims and their families protect their rights and pursue rightful compensation for asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. We are also committed to staying abreast of developments in this area to help our clients and the community in treating the deadly cancer, mesothelioma.
A leading doctor at the University of Leicester’s Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular medicine has initiated two treatment trials for patients of mesothelioma, the lung cancer which has been linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a common material found in household products as well as construction materials, especially historically before the risks of asbestos were known. Many industrial workers have been unknowingly exposed to asbestos and contract the cancer later in life. Throughout the developed world, the number of mesothelioma cases continues to rise due to exposures that happened before the industrial product was restricted in use. Asbestos is still not completely banned in the United States.
The disease is grueling and begins by attacking the inner lining of the lungs, causing the chest wall to thicken and reducing lung capacity. In addition to causing breathing difficulties, many patients suffer strains on other organs, including the heart. Disease experts anticipate that the number of mesothelioma cases will continue to rise and is expected to peak in 2020.
The new studies are aimed at testing potential treatments which could increase the opportunity for survival as well as increase the overall quality of life for mesothelioma patients. In addition to the pain and suffering related to the disease, many patients are completely debilitated, unable to work, and suffering financially. For victims and families impacted by mesothelioma, treatment to reduce this suffering can be critical. In addition to medical treatment, victims may also be entitled to financial compensation to improve quality of life and care for patients.
The first trial is testing the effectiveness of a drug called ganestespib and is funded by Synta Pharmaceuticals. The drug is intended to reduce and prevent mesothelioma tumors. The drug has the potential to inhibit protein in cells, which can ultimately reduce tumor growth. The medical team will use the drug on 140 patients in the UK and the university leaders hope that the drug can effectively target and combat mesothelioma.
The second trial is global and sponsored by the pharmaceutical company, Verastem, and investigates the drug known as defactinib. This drug has the ability to inhibit “focal adhesion kinase” which is necessary for cancer stem cells to develop into tumors. Researchers hope that this drug reduces need for repeat chemotherapy by killing cancer stem cells. This trial will involve 350-400 mesothelioma patients throughout the world.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma in Boston, call for a free and confidential appointment at (617) 777-7777.
Additional Resources:
EPA battles illegal actions with asbestos, Sept. 2, 2013, By Freda R. Savana, The Intelligencer
More Blog Entries:
Brave Workplace Safety Advocate Dies at 71, Aug. 28, 2013, Boston Mesothelioma Lawyer Blog