Syracuse, NY 2/5/2009 12:57:07 AM
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center Observes World Cancer Day
Organization Urges Further Investment in Mesotheliom Research
The Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center urges all to observe World Cancer Day today, February 4th. Cancer is the world's leading cause of death and even as we have made made great strides in recent years in cancer research and treatment, we still have much work to do. In particular, we are urging more investment and research in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma.
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral used in industrial insulation compounds. Mesothelioma forms in the mesothelial cells, a thin membrane that lines the body's internal organs. The most common form of the disease is pleural mesothelioma, a tumor which forms in the pleural lining of the lung.
Mesothelioma has no known cure and prognosis is typically poor, with most patients dying within 18 months of diagnosis. However, in recent years, a growing awareness of the disease has led to small, but not insignificant, increases in funding for research into emerging therapies.
When mesothelioma was first discovered. Patients and their families were frustrated by the lack of treatment options. Recently though, physicians like Dr. David Sugarbaker and the International Mesothelioma Program have developed advanced therapies, like the tri-modal therapeutic approach, which encompasses aspects of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These types of therapies have been able to extend patient survival rates far more than was thought to be possible in the past.
More help however, is needed. We must implore lawmakers and government officials to invest in not only cancer research, but also make a significant investment into the comprehensive research and treatment of malignant mesothelioma. It is our hope that someday we may find a cure for mesothelioma and we can begin that journey today as we celebrate World Cancer Day.
The Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center has long been recognized as the web's leading source for information concerning mesothelioma, advanced treatment options, and other cancer resources.
