:: Cancer Watcher ::

New Breast Cancer Awareness And Information

2007-11-09T22:29:00.000-08:00

Breast cancer can be said to be one of the oldest known type of cancer tumors in humans mostly in women. The oldest description of this deadly disease, though the term cancer was not used, was discovered in Egypt years ago.

The most prevalent cancer in women is breast cancer, it is also the second most common cause of death in women apart from lung cancer. Because the breast is composed of identical tissues in males and females, breast cancer also occurs in males though it is less common.

In the olden days before technology starts in earnest, there is a believe that there is no treatment for cancer. For years, many physicians in their practices, described similar cases with the same sad conclusion that there is no treatment for cancer.

The story remained the same until some doctors achieved greater understanding of the circulatory system that a link between breast cancer and the lymph nodes in the armpit can be established and be removed at the same time.

The first attempt to remove the lymph nodes, breast tissue, and underlying chest muscle was successful, which removed the fear that there is no treatment for the deadly disease called breast cancer.

Most breast pain or painful breast lump can be a case of early breast cancer. Since breast mammography started, breast cancer is most frequently discovered as an nodule that causes no symptom on a mammogram, before any symptoms are present.

The probability of breast cancer rises with age, but breast cancer tends to be more aggressive when it occurs in younger people

reast cancer can be said to be one of the oldest known type of cancer tumors in humans mostly in women. The oldest description of this deadly disease, though the term cancer was not used, was discovered in Egypt years ago.

The first attempt to remove the lymph nodes, breast tissue, and underlying chest muscle was successful, which removed the fear that there is no treatment for the deadly disease called breast cancer.

The probability of breast cancer rises with age, but breast cancer tends to be more aggressive when it occurs in younger people

Information on Inflammatory Breast Cancer

2007-11-09T22:09:00.000-08:00

By Alex Fir

Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare cancer that happens in a very small percentage of women. It is an aggressive type of locally advanced cancer.

In general, women with inflammatory breast cancer are diagnosed at a younger age. In extremely rare circumstances, this form of breast cancer is diagnosed in men. Inflammatory breast cancer usually develops as a sheet rather than a lump.

Symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer include:

Breast becomes red, purple, pink or bruised;
Breast becomes firm and enlarged;
A warm feeling in the breast;
Itching of the breast;
Pain;
Skin texture similar to an orange peel;
Enlarged lymph nodes under the arm;
Flattening of the nipple;
Swollen skin on the nipple;
Change in color of the skin around the nipple.

It is very easy to mix up the symptoms of inflammatory breast cancer with those of a breast infection. If you become aware of any of the signs of inflammatory breast cancer, see your doctor immediately.

This form of cancer is not caused by an inflammation or infection. Inflammatory breast cancer happens when cancer cells clog the lymphatic vessels in the skin overlying the breast.

In the past, inflammatory breast cancer was treated by surgery and was associated with a 100% mortality rate. Fortunately, major progress has been made in recent years using a combination of treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

These treatments have greatly improved the prognosis for a woman with inflammatory breast cancer. Recent studies have shown as much as a 50% survival rate after 5 years and a 35% survival rate after 10 years.

Breast Cancer - Another Obesity Victim

2007-11-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

By Tom Crystal

Obesity raises the risk of various types of cancer. And only 3% people know that obesity increases cancer risks. According to a recent research based on one million Americans conducted by the American cancer society, 14% of cancer deaths in men and 20% of cancer deaths in women occur due to Obesity. Scientists say that 90,000 deaths can be avoided in America if they take good care to maintain their body weight. Women are more likely to get cancer in their breasts, gallbladder, ovaries, colon and cervix while men get cancer in colon and rectum.

Breast cancer in women:
There are more than 200 different types of cancer, but together breast, lung, bowel and prostate cancer cover half of the cancer cases. Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in females. Overweight and obesity are the major causes of breast cancer.

Obesity and Breast cancer risk in females:
Obese women have higher amounts of estrogen in their body. Estrogen is mainly produced from the fatty tissues and more amount of fat in your body means you have higher chances of getting affected by breast cancer. Good nutrition, healthy living conditions and a fine environment may help girls to start puberty earlier in life and attain menopause later. Estrogen develops though out the fertility period. And better levels of estrogen in the body increases the risk of breast cancer in women.

Breast cancer in men:
Breast cancer is generally found in females but it is also seen in males. Recent research shows that breast cancer among males is also on the increase. And obesity is one of its main causes. In males too estrogen is responsible for breast cancer.

Obesity and breast cancer :
• Obesity affects both the development and progression of breast cancer.
• Post menopausal cancer risk is higher among obese women.
• Breast cancer mortality is higher in obese women.
• Body weight measured at different times during life also causes breast cancer.

Ovarian Cancer- It Whispers, So Listen

2007-11-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

By Jean Wensink

Ovarian cancer is the biggest killer amongst all of the female cancers. Nearly 80% of those treated for ovarian cancer will experience a recurrence. The chances of death within the first five years of treatment is nearly 50%, no matter if it is stage 2,3, or 4. These grim statistics are now a reality for my own life. I am an ovarian cancer survivor.

One reason ovarian cancer is so deadly is because it is very difficult to detect. Often, by the time it is diagnosed, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. There is no reliable screening for ovarian cancer like there is for breast cancer and cervical cancer. It can only be detected through an exam by an Ob/Gyn. So, it is important for all women to make an effort to get those yearly exams.

There is a tumor marker,CA-125, in the blood that may show the presence of ovarian cancer. It is not used as a screening procedure because it is not reliable enough. However, in cases where a woman is at a high risk, the CA-125 marker may be used to alert a Dr. for further testing.

A woman's worst nightmare is the diagnosis of cancer. Yet, early detection is the best way to prevent any cancer from spreading and growing. Take care of yourself and take the time to get your yearly exam. It could save your life.

Staging Colon Cancer

2007-11-09T22:00:00.000-08:00

By Theodore Frazer

Staging is a method of evaluating the progress of colon cancer in a patient. That is, it looks at the colon cancer (tumor) and the extent to which the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Once doctors know how far along the colon cancer is, they can decide on the best course of treatment.

Today, the most common used system for the staging of colon cancer is the American Joint Committee on Cancer's (AJCC) TNM staging system. This staging system places patients into one of four stages (Stage I, Stage II, Stage III and Stage IV).

American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Staging System

Stage 0 Colon Cancer

In Stage 0, the colon cancer is found in the innermost lining of the colon only. Stage 0 colorectal cancer is also called carcinoma in situ.

Stage I Colon Cancer

In Stage I, the colon cancer has begun to spread, but is still in the inner lining of the colon or rectum. In Stage I, the colon cancer has not reached the outer wall of the colon. Another name for Stage I colorectal cancer or Duke A.

Stage II Colon Cancer

In Stage II, the colon cancer extends more deeply into and/or through the colon or rectum. The colon cancer may have invaded nearby tissue. In Stage II, it the colon cancer has not reached lymph nodes (Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body that filter substances in a fluid call lymph to help fight infection and disease. Another name for Stage II colorectal cancer or Duke B.

Stage III Colon Cancer

In Stage III, the colon cancer has spread to lymph nodes, but has not been carried to distant parts of the body. Another name for Stage III colorectal cancer or Duke C.

Stage IV Colon Cancer

In Stage IV, the colon cancer has been carried through the lymph system to distant parts of the body. This is known as metastasis. The most likely organs to experience metastasis from colorectal cancer are the lungs and liver. Another name for Stage IV colorectal cancer or Duke D.

Recurrent Colon Cancer or Cancerous Cells

Recurrent colon cancer is the return of cancerous cells that have already been treated. The cancerous cells could return as colorectal cancer, and/or return in any other part of the body.

Small Lung Cancer

2007-11-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

By Tim Grimsley

Small Cell Lung Cancer is second only to breast cancer in terms of deaths. There are about 175,000 reported cases of Small Cell Lung Cancer in the U.S. each year. Of these, about 160,000 will result in the death of the patient. Small Cell Lung Cancer is so deadly because it is hard to catch in time. Small Cell Lung Cancer develops in cells that are actually so small that they do not show up on normal x-rays. By the time they are found the cancer is usually already into an advanced state.

The leading cause of Small Cell Lung Cancer is smoking. Smokers run a much higher chance of contracting Small Cell Lung Cancer as compared to non-smokers. Anyone who is a smoker should see a doctor for regular examinations.

The best chance someone has if they contract Small Cell Lung Cancer is catching it early. Those who catch the cancer in the first stage of development have up to a 40% chance of survival with the correct treatment.

There are two forms of lung cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer is the least dangerous of the two. About 50% of the lung cancer cases reported are Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. These are treatable. Patients often see a full recovery. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer has 5 stages of development. The recovery percentages decrease the more advanced it becomes.

Small Cell Lung Cancer only has two stages: mild and severe. When it reaches the severe state it spreads very rapidly throughout the body. This is why it is much tougher to fight. By the time Small Cell Lung Cancer is detected it is usually in the severe stage. At this point most patients only have 18-20 months to live.

Bone Cancer

2007-11-09T21:53:00.000-08:00

By Karen Lavender and Warren

Bones form the core structure of our body. In total, there are 200 bones in a human body that support us and provide protection to our body organs. Though bone cancer is not as common as most other types of cancer, it is quite dangerous like most cancers.

Types of bone cancer

There are mainly 2 categories in which we can classify bone cancer – primary bone cancer and secondary bone cancer. When the bone cancer originates in the bone itself, it is categorised as primary bone cancer and when it spreads from a cancer elsewhere in the body it is known as secondary bone cancer. Though there are quite a few different kinds of bone cancer, the most common one is Osteosarcoma. This type of bone cancer occurs primarily in younger adults and affects knee joints the most.

Cause and symptoms of bone cancer

The exact causes of bone cancer still seem to be a matter of research and study. The symptoms of bone cancer are linked to the position of the cancer-affected bone in the body. One of the symptoms of bone cancer is incidence of swelling or tenderness or pain in the area affected by bone cancer. The formation of a lump is another indication of bone cancer. Though the detection of a bone cancer related lump is a bit difficult in the initial stages of bone cancer, the lump can sometimes be felt (due to the restriction in movement that it causes) when the bone cancer occurs at joints (e.g. knee joints). However, none of these symptoms are prominent indicators of bone cancer.

Diagnosis of bone cancer

If you experience a lump or any of the bone cancer symptoms, you must not neglect them and seek advice of a qualified doctor. Remember that early diagnosis of any type of cancer (not just bone cancer) can help in getting a cure and reducing the threat to life.

Treatment of bone cancer

Removal of bone tumour through surgical procedures is one the most common ways of treating bone cancer. Radiotherapy and chemo therapy are other ways of treating bone cancer. A combination of different techniques is sometimes used to form a more effective bone cancer treatment. The kind of treatment to be administered is dependent on the stage of bone cancer and the place of its occurrence.

Introduction to Mesothelioma Clinical Trials

2007-07-12T01:36:00.000-07:00

Introduction to Mesothelioma Clinical Trials
By Luis Mon

Introduction

Choosing whether or not to take part in a clinical trial can be one of the toughest decisions facing a person with cancer.

Clinical trials are people-based studies -- as opposed to animal or lab studies -- of new drugs or procedures. Doctors use clinical trials to learn whether a new mesothelioma treatment is safe and effective in patients. Such trials are vital to the development of new treatments for diseases such as cancer.

The doctors in charge of the study don't know ahead of time how things will turn out. If they did, there would be no need for the study in the first place. And because the doctors don't know how things will turn out, they really can't answer the patient who asks, "Should I take part?"

Most people don't pay much attention to clinical trials until they are diagnosed with a serious illness such as cancer. You may have seen stories in the news about something going wrong in a clinical trial. The media is quick to pick up on an instance when a volunteer in a study is harmed. While it is very rare, people have been harmed, and have even died, while taking part in clinical trials. This is even more tragic when it could have been prevented. Reports of these tragic outcomes are important, because they help to expose problems in the system, which are then corrected to protect others.

What you usually don't hear about, however, are the thousands of people who are helped each year because they decided to take part in a clinical trial, not to mention the millions who ultimately benefit from others' participation in clinical trials.

There is no right or wrong choice when it comes time to decide on taking part in a clinical trial. The decision is a very personal one and depends on many factors, including the benefits and risks of the study, what the person hopes to achieve by taking part, and other preferences.

Knowing all you can about clinical trials in general -- and ones you are considering in particular -- can help you feel more at ease with your decision. If you do decide to participate, knowing what to look for and what to expect ahead of time can help you.

This guide should address many basic questions and concerns so that you are better prepared to discuss the subject with your doctor and family. It should clarify which questions need to be asked beforehand and what the answers may mean for you. In the end, however, only you can decide if taking part in a clinical trial is right for you.

One last note: Clinical trials are conducted in all areas of medicine, including ways to prevent and diagnose diseases, but this guide focuses on studies for people who have cancer. However, most of the information here applies to other types of clinical trials as well.

One may obtain a clinical trial worksheet of the Mesothelioma Information Resource Group website.

Support www.mirg.org

Luis Montalvo
Coady Law Firm
http://www.coadylaw.com

2007-07-12T01:35:00.000-07:00

Stop Smoking - Cut Your Risk of Lung Cancer
By Samantha Kay

Most people know that smoking causes lung caner. They are also aware their smoke is bad for the health of their family, friends, or anyone else who comes in contact with the cigarette smoke. However, these people say they just can't stop smoking. It isn't easy.

Along with all of the cancer causing ingredients of cigarette smoke, one of the main ingredients of cigarette smoke is highly addictive. If you want to quit smoking but just can't seem to, here are some statistics that might help you put down your smokes for good. Also included are some suggestions to help you stop smoking.

First, smoking is responsible for eighty percent of lung cancer deaths in women while ninety percent of men who die of lung cancer were smokers or were exposed to second hand smoke. Next time you light up around your children, think about these statistics. You are not only damaging your health, you are also damaging their health.

In a recent study lead by Stephen S. Hecht, a professor at the University of Missouri, the main cancer causing ingredient of cigarette smoke was found in the urine of infants who lived with parents who smoked. Infants who lived with non-smoking parents did not have this chemical in their urine. This new information is in addition to the knowledge that children of smokers are more prone to ear and lung infections than those of non-smokers.

Of the more than 4,500 chemicals that make up cigarette smoke 60 of them are known to be cancer causing. If a place of business was emitting this many cancer causing agents, the business would be shut down until it could clean up its emissions and protect its workers from these dangerous chemicals. Yet, cigarettes are freely sold and openly smoked. Luckily for non-smokers, many public places are becoming aware of the dangers of cigarette smoke and are declaring themselves to be smoke free.

Even if you have smoked all of your life, it doesn't make since to assume it's too late to quit now. Researchers have found that those who smoke increase their risk of developing cancer with the number of years they have smoked and the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. However, they have also found that if any given smoker stops smoking, their risk of developing lung cancer will decreases.

If you do want to stop smoking, smoking cessation products have improved in the last several years. You can buy nicotine patches or gum specially designed to help ease you gradually off of smoking and make the transition easier. There is also a new prescription smoking cessation medication that seems to be very promising. If you want to quit smoking and be healthier, talk to your doctor about which options are best for you.

It is well known that cigarettes are not good for you. They are also not good for your family or those who inhale your smoke. While cigarettes are addictive, stopping smoking is worth the effort as it can cut your risk of developing lung cancer. If you want to quit, there is help. A wide variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to help you stop smoking.

For more information on cancer try visiting http://www.cancercondition.com - a website that specializes in providing cancer related information and resources including information on lung cancer.

Mesothelioma Cancer Stages Explained

2007-07-12T01:34:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma Cancer Stages Explained
By Dave Casey

Mesothelioma cancer is a type of cancer that attacks the lungs and chest cavity. Also known as asbestos lung cancer, it forms deadly tumors where mesothelial cancer cells form a protective lining over the lungs, heart, and abdominal organs. It is a type of lung cancer that takes many years to develop and produce symptoms. Roughly 3,000 cases per year (mostly men over the age of 40) are reported. It is estimated that number will grow to about 300,000 cases before 2030.

Types of Mesothelioma Asbestos Cancer

Epithelial mesothelioma is a rare and fatal form of cancer affecting the membrane lining of the chest cavity, heart, lungs, and abdominal cavity. There are three forms of epithelial mesothelioma: the most common is Pleural Mesothelioma, the second most common, Peritoneal Mesothelioma (accounting for only a quarter of the cases), and the rarest form, pericardial mesothelioma.

Pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of this disease involves the pleura, a thin membrane located between the lungs and the chest cavity. The pleura provide a lubricated surface so that the lungs do not rub and chafe against the chest walls. There are two types of pleural mesothelioma the first being 'diffuse and malignant'. This type is cancerous and is generally fatal within a year of diagnosis. The second type is 'localized and benign' and is generally non-life threatening. It can usually be removed through surgery.

Lung Lining cancer is not to be confused with lung cancer. In lung lining cancer, the effected area of the body is called the mesothelium, a thin membrane that covers many of the internal organs of the body. The mesothelium of the lungs is called the pleura. Lung Lining cancer is also sometimes called mesothelioma after the area in which it occurs.

This thin membrane is comprised of two layers - one that surrounds the organ and another that forms an exterior sac around the first layer. Between the layers of the mesothelium is a fluid that allows vital organs to glide easily against objects that come in contact with them.

Localized pleural mesothelioma is not always caused by asbestos exposure. However, if it has spread to other parts of the body, for instance the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs, then it is considered malignant and is more often than not the result of asbestos exposure.

Peritoneal mesothelioma appears as a tumor in the peritoneum membrane of the abdomen. This type of mesothelioma is very rare, comprising less than a fourth of all known cases of the disease. There are no effective treatments for this condition, and most patients live less than a year after diagnosis.

Mesentery cancer is likened to peritoneal cancer (mesothelioma). This cancer primarily affects the sections of the peritoneum that attach different organs to the wall of the abdominal cavity, (i.e. mesogastrium for the stomach, mesojejunum for the jejunum). Mesentery cancer includes all abdominal peritoneal extensions. Tumors rarely originate in the actual mesentery, though it is a frequent route for the spread of mesothelioma through the abdominal cavity.

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma, affecting the membrane around the heart (called the pericardium or pericardial sac). In this disease, solid masses and effusion (fluid) develop around the pericardium. Not all effusions are strictly related to mesothelioma.

The Causes

Mesothelioma cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers or dust. Workers in the asbestos industry are prime targets for attracting this deadly disease. Asbestos fibers enter the body, either by breathing in the tiny asbestos fibers or by swallowing them. The fibers cause healthy cells to mutate into cancer. Since the body is unable to dispel these fibers, the lungs become inflamed (asbestosis). This condition worsens and eventually becomes malignant. Asbestos exposure is thought to be responsible for roughly 75% of all cases of lung lining cancer.

Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a very difficult cancer to detect in early stages. The early symptoms tend to be generic and even nonexistent in some cases, and it can take as much as 15 to 50 years after exposure to develop. The first symptom is often constant chest pain, followed by coughing, lung damage, and shortness of breath. Patients who have peritoneal mesothelioma (a less common form of mesothelioma) generally experience abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal swelling, often in addition to the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. They may also develop bowel obstruction or further breathing obstruction.

Stages and Diagnosis of Mesothelioma

There are three staging systems used to determine treatment for mesothelioma: Butchart System, TNM System, and the Brigham System

Butchart Staging System

The Butchart System is the oldest system and the most common. This system concentrates upon determining the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesothelioma into four stages.

Stage I of the Butchart System consists of the presence of mesothelioma in the lining of the right or left lung and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side. Stage II includes the progression of mesothelioma into the chest wall, esophagus, or lung lining on bother sides. There may also be lymph nodes in the chest. The onset of Stage III begins when the mesothelioma surpasses the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. In this stage the cancer may also affect the lymph nodes extending beyond those in the chest. Doctors identify Stage IV, the final stage, when evidence of the spread of cancer to other organs (metastasis) is confirmed.

TNM System Stage I of the TNM System involves the lining of the right or left lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. At this stage, lymph nodes are not involved. Stage II begins when mesothelioma spreads from the lining of the lung on one side to a lymph node on the same side. At this stage, the cancer may also spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Stage III begins when mesothelioma is present in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side as the primary tumor. In the final stage, Stage IV, the mesothelioma has travelled into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, into the lung opposite the primary tumor, or directly into the organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Metastasis is the final result in this stage.

Brigham System

The Brigham System determines the resectability (the ability to surgically remove) the mesothelioma mass. In Stage I the tumor is resectable, while lymph nodes remain unaffected. In Stage II the tumor remains respectable but the mesothelioma affects the lymph nodes. In Stage III the tumor becomes unresectable. It has penetrated through the diaphragm, or peritoneum. Stage III can occur with or without lymph involvement and extends into the chest wall and heart. Stage IV occurs when doctors discover metastatic disease involving distant organs.

After doctors identify the stage of a patient's malignant mesothelioma, the patient and doctor consider the various treatment options available. Mesothelioma treatment programs are contingent upon many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the cancer, the spread of mesothelioma cancer, the characteristics of the cancer cells under a microscope and the patient's age and concerns.

About the Author:

Dave Casey is a freelance writer for Mesothelioma-Adviser.com, a comprehensive informational site on mesothelioma cancer. He hopes to expose the continued cover-up of the asbestos industry responsible for the causes of mesothelioma.

2007-07-12T01:33:00.000-07:00

The History of the Asbestos Industry
By Dave Casey

The history of asbestos as we know it dates back 2000 years. It was the Greeks who named this mineral asbestos, meaning inextinguishable. The ancient Greeks observed the harmful biological effects but continued to use the mineral said to have magical properties. Pliny (Roman naturalist) and Strabo (Greek geographer) noted an appearance of “sickness of the lungs” in slaves who wove asbestos into cloth. The Greeks also used asbestos for the wicks of the eternal flames of the vestal virgins, as the funeral dress worn by kings and for napkins. They were so impressed with the magical properties of the mineral that they were willing to overlook its harmful symptoms for humans. They went as far as calling asbestos "amiantus", meaning "unpolluted.

During the middle ages, it was believed that the Frankish king, Charlemagne had asbestos tablecloths. Asbestos products were used in the 1700 hundreds but did not really become popular until the late 1800’s. The industrial Revolution demanded new uses for the mineral. It was used as insulation for steam pipes, turbines, boilers, kilns, ovens, and other high-temperature products.

The history of asbestos use continued into the twentieth century and researchers began to investigate the harmful toxic affects. It was first noticed in 1917 and 1918 that a great number of young people in asbestos mining towns prematurely died. Researchers in England carried out clinical studies on asbestos workers in 1924, after the recorded death of a young woman who had been diagnosed with the new disease they called asbestosis. Twenty-five percent of the test subjects showed evidence of asbestos-related lung disease. Legislation was enacted in 1931, to increase ventilation and to recognize asbestosis a work-related disease.

The 1930’s brought in with it, the surge of major medical research articles, warning about the asbestos connection with lung cancer partially due to a new disease, silicosis, caused by in haling silica dust particles. Much of this research continued to be ignored. Large Asbestos companies continued to use asbestos in manufacturing and construction, despite that fact that safer alternatives such as fiberglass insulation were created to replace it. These companies hid their lung cancer findings to avoid the million dollar lawsuits brought upon them by asbestos cancer victims. The history of asbestos use and company profiteering has no doubt exploited asbestos workers then and now. Today, victims exposed to asbestos are faced with mesothelioma cancer and certain death.

What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber mined from the earth. It is strong, flexible, and resistant to heat, chemicals and electrical conditions.

Forms of Asbestos The three most common forms of asbestos are divided into two groups. The serpentine group includes white (chrysotile) asbestos. The amphibole group includes brown (amosite) and blue (crocidolite) asbestos.

Asbestos Properties Asbestos has many properties that once made it attractive to industry. It is stable when heated, it provides strength under tension, it is resistant to chemicals and does not absorb water (depending on type of asbestos). Asbestos is suitable for weaving and can be used to reinforce materials such as concrete. And lastly, it is a good resistance to electricity.

Asbestos Categories 'Bonded' is used to refer to asbestos being so firmly embedded in a material that these materials are unlikely to release measurable levels of asbestos fiber into the air if they are left undisturbed. Therefore, they generally pose a lower risk to health.

Bonded asbestos-containing materials include asbestos cement products (flat and corrugated sheeting used in walls, ceilings and roofs, molded items such as down pipes), vinyl floor coverings.

'Friable' is used to refer to asbestos-containing materials that can be easily reduced to powder by hand, when dry. These materials are more likely to release measurable levels of asbestos into the air when disturbed, and generally pose a greater risk to health. Friable asbestos-containing materials include sprayed asbestos fire retardants

Asbestos Industry In the past, the asbestos industry used around 3000 products manufactured worldwide, most commonly in the construction, car manufacturing and textile industries. It was generally manufactured in the following forms: fibrous (limpet asbestos), woven (cloth, tape or sleeving), wound (rope) or mixed with a binder, such as calcium silicate (to make asbestos cement or vinyl floor products containing asbestos).

Because of its strength and its ability to resist heat and chemicals, asbestos was used in a range of insulation materials. Older commercial industrial buildings and private dwellings may contain a variety of asbestos products, such as asbestos-cement sheeting in walls and ceilings, or roof cladding made from corrugated asbestos-cement. Asbestos may be found in structures built as late as the mid- to late 1980s.

Asbestos Related Occupations Asbestos has been used in association with a number of occupations such as the US military and armed forces, particularly the Navy. Massive amounts of asbestos were used in shipbuilding and commercial construction prior to the mid-1970's.

Other workers in occupations which have been associated with asbestos use are:

Insulators, Pipe Fitters, Plumbers, Electricians, Painters, Crane Operators, Floor Coverers, Pot Tenders, Welders, Paper Mill Workers, Custodians, Steam Fitters, Tile Setters, Aerospace Workers, Mechanics, Building Engineers, Demolition Crews, Former US Navy Personnel, Packing/Gasket Manufacturing Workers, Protective Clothing Manufacturing, Rubber Workers, Warehouse Workers, Home Improvement, Hospitals, Schools, Loading Docks, Glass Factory Workers, Building Inspectors, Bulldozer Operators, Manufacturing Workers, Excavating machine operators, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Job and Die setters, Contractors, Building Managers, Mixing Operatives, Laborers, Sawyers, Teachers, Tinsmiths, Weavers, Excavators, Technicians

Risks of Asbestos Exposure Humans come into contact with asbestos when they swallow or inhale the fibers. These particles can then become embedded in the tissues of the respiratory or digestive systems.

Three Main Diseases Caused by Asbestos Exposure

Asbestosis Asbestosis causes widespread scar tissue between the alveoli, or spread over the lung. It is difficult to distinguish from other causes of interstitial fibrosis. Only confirmation of exposure to asbestos or detection of unusually high numbers of asbestos fibers in the lung is considered conclusive evidence of this disease.

Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a tumor of the chest lining, abdominal lining and occasionally the heart lining. Asbestos is not the only cause of this disease, but it is the most important cause in modern times. Crocidolite is the most important asbestos-related factor, but amosite, chrysotile and tremolite are also linked. This disease takes 20-50 years to appear, with the highest risk around 30-35 years after exposure. It is typically dose-related, but in rare cases has been known to occur in patients with little known occupational exposure to asbestos.

Lung Cancer Lung cancer is relatively common among the general public and is the cancer most frequently associated with asbestos. Tumors grow and eventually obstruct airways. No characteristics specify a lung cancer as being caused by asbestos; we cannot distinguish a 'cigarette' lung cancer from an 'asbestos' lung cancer or 'another' lung cancer. Smoking increases the risk of death due to lung cancer for asbestos workers.

The history of asbestos and how it is has endangered human mortality has plagued different societies since ancient times. Throughout history must of these warnings have been ignored. Today, the use of asbestos is banned in the US and many other countries. This ban applies to manufacture, supply, storage, sale, use, reuse, installation and replacement of asbestos, except in special circumstances (e.g. removal and disposal of asbestos, and research work).

About the Author:

Dave Casey is a medical writer for Mesothelioma-Adviser.com, a comprehensive guide for mesothelioma cancer patients. The guide covers the history of asbestos, asbestos exposure and treatment options.

Nonsmokers More At Risk

2007-07-12T01:32:00.000-07:00

Nonsmokers More At Risk
By Philip Nicosia

Health conscious people often frown at the sight of smokers. This is because we have this notion that those puffing cigarettes many times each day are prone to getting cancer of the lungs. But did you know that lung cancer is not to be totally blamed on smoking cigarettes like what many of us believe? Surprisingly, it is the nonsmokers who are more at risk of getting the disease.

A new study has found that people who do not smoke can get lung cancer, too. The study, published in the February 10 issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, revealed that people who never smoked can get the disease with women more at risk than men. Researchers from the Stanford University School of Medicine and the Northern California Cancer Center collected data from the United States and Sweden that monitored cases of lung cancer in more than one million people aged 40 to 79. They then calculated the incidence rates based on new cases per person per year. The researchers found that the incidence rate of lung cancer in women non-smokers ranged from 14.4. to 20.8 cases per 100,000 person-years.

Lead researchers, however, say that many factors can lead to this disease among people who never smoke. Exposure of women to secondhand smoke may be partly blamed for their higher risk compared to men. Co-author Ellen Chang, ScD, an epidemiologist at the Northern California Cancer Center, said secondhand smoke does increase the chance of getting lung cancer so the cases that we observe can be attributed to that. Meanwhile, lead author Heather Wakelee, MD, assistant professor of medicine at Stanford University, also said that although some environment pollutants such as asbestos, chromium, arsenic and radon may cause the disease in non-smokers, they have not been proven. When more concrete factors are eventually known, she said doctors will be able to understand more how cancer works allowing them to find new treatment.

Each year, over 180,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer. The disease actually causes more deaths than other types of cancer like breast, colon and prostate. The researchers are hoping that their study will raise public awareness and help ease the stigma among non-smoking patients.

So if you want to avoid cancer of any type, what’s the best thing to do? Very simple – just eat the right healthy foods, get some exercise and stop smoking. In other words, changes in behavior and lifestyle are very crucial. Medical experts say don’t do it later, next week or next month but right now.

Be cautious of what you eat and drink. Eating lots of fruits and veggies will surely lower your chances of getting colon, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach and lung cancers. Avoid frequent consumption of red meat as much as possible as it can lead to colon cancer. Experts also recommended taking a multivitamin that has folate, a B vitamin, every day. As for drinks, wine and other alcoholic beverages should be taken in moderation as overconsumption leads to a higher risk of getting oral, esophageal, breast and other cancers.

Don’t forget to stay active, too. Being overweight and physically inactive have been blamed for 20 to 30 percent of the most common cancers in the U.S. But losing weight, especially for women in their adult years, and increasing physical activity can make you less prone to getting the disease. Physical activity has also been found to have an impact on the recurrence of a cancer or survival of a patient diagnosed with breast cancer.

Podcastblaster is a site specializing in all aspect of podcasting and provides an extensive podcast directory covering many topics including science & medicine podcasts.

Types and Stages of Pleural Mesothelioma

2007-07-12T01:31:00.000-07:00

Types and Stages of Pleural Mesothelioma
By Dave Casey

Pleural mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor involving the mesothelial cells that make up the pleura or lining around the outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs. It can also involve the heart and abdomen. Pleural mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, including chrysotile, amosite, or crocidolite that occurred twenty or more years before the disease becomes evident. These fibers are ingested into to the body through breathing or swallowing. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for about 75% of all cases.

Types of Plural Mesothelioma

“Localized and benign” mesothelioma is non-life threatening and can be removed by surgery.

“Diffuse and malignant” mesothelioma is a cancer that generally results in death within one year of diagnosis.

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

Chest wall pain, pleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lung, shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue or anemia, wheezing, hoarseness, or cough and blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up. Patients may develop several tumor masses. Patients may experience pneumothorax, or collapse of the lung. The disease may metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.

Stages of Pleural Mesothelioma

There are four stages of this disease. Localized pleural mesothelioma cancer ranging from - Stage I; the cancer remains on the membrane surface where it originated to Stage IV; advanced. In this final stage, the cancer has (metastasized) spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.

Screening and Diagnosis

Doctors first review the patient’s medical history including any exposure to asbestos. The doctor may perform a complete physical examination. Doctors are then likely to order x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. These tests include various imaging tests such as CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI.

A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer. Doctors perform a thoracoscopy on patients showing symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma. This procedure involves making a small cut through the chest wall then inserting a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Doctors suction out any access fluid in the lungs through a procedure called thoracentesis. They can then obtain tissue samples for analysis. Other types of tube insertions include bronchoscopy or a mediastinoscopy

Treatment Options

Here are some of the most widely used treatments at this time.

Surgical removal of the entire lung and a part of the chest lining, the diaphragm and part of the sac surrounding the heart.

Radiotherapy is applied to the sites of chest drain insertion, in order to prevent growth of the tumor along the track in the chest wall. Though not particularly successful, radiation is preformed to relieve symptoms arising from tumor growth, such as obstruction of a major blood vessel.

Chemotherapy is used to stop the cancer cells from growing and dividing.

It is important to note that there are no successful treatments for pleural mesothelioma to date. Patients usually have a median survival time of 6 - 12 months after presentation of the symptoms.

About the Author:

Dave Casey is a medical writer for Mesothelioma-Adviser.com, a guide for mesothelioma cancer victims. Visit the site for mesothelioma cancer help, articles on asbestosis symptoms and legal advice.

Causes and Symptoms of Esophageal Mesothelioma Cancer

2007-07-12T01:19:00.003-07:00

Causes and Symptoms of Esophageal Mesothelioma Cancer
By Dave Casey

Esophageal mesothelioma cancer occurs in about 11,000 Americans per year. This accounts for less than 1% of all cancers. However, the incidence of esophageal cancer is increasing.

Cancer can develop in any part of the esophagus. It can spread to surrounding lymph nodes, the windpipe, and the large blood vessels in the chest, and other nearby organs. Treatment for esophageal mesothelioma cancer depends on a number of factors, including its exact location, size, extent, and type of cancer cells. It's also important to consider age and general health to develop a treatment plan to fit each patient's needs.

Causes of Esophageal Mesothelioma Cancer

Esophageal mesothelioma cancer occurs in the larynx (voice box) and oropharynx that is the part of the throat at the back of the mouth. There is sufficient to suggest that asbestos exposure is a cause of laryngeal cancer. There is insufficient evidence at this time to prove that asbestos is a cause of pharyngeal cancer.

Types of Esophageal Cancer

Squamous cell carcinomas occur in the cells that line the esophagus. Adenocarcinomas occur in the glandular tissue in the lower part of the esophagus and can spread to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of Esophageal Mesothelioma Cancer

Difficulty in swallowing, a feeling of fullness, pressure, or burning as food goes down the esophagus, a feeling of food getting stuck behind the breastbone.

Methods of Diagnosis

Esophagram (also called a barium swallow), is a series of x-rays of the esophagus. To prepare for this test, the patient drinks a barium solution. The barium, which shows up on x-rays, coats the inside of the esophagus for easier viewing. Esophagoscopy is a thin, flexible, lighted instrument (an endoscope) which is passed through the mouth and down the throat to the esophagus to view where the esophagus joins the stomach. Biopsy is a removal of a small amount of tissue through the endoscope to test for the presence of cancer.

Staging

The nature of the tumor is primarily evaluated by a CT scan of the chest. A CT scan reveals if the tumor has travelled into the trachea (windpipe) and large blood vessels or lymph nodes.

Esophageal ultrasound is similar to esophagoscopy, but with the addition of a built-in ultrasound devise.

PET scanning can also be used to evaluate esophageal cancer.

Treatment of Esophageal Mesothelioma Cancer

Treatment for esophageal cancer is contingent upon a number of factors, including its exact location, size, extent, and type of cancer cells. The doctor also considers the patient's age and general health to develop the best treatment plan.

Surgical resection (removal) of the tumor is the preferred treatment. Recently, surgeons have been using minimally invasive surgical techniques to remove esophageal cancers.

Chemotherapy and radiation are also frequently used, either in conjunction with surgery or independently.

Several additional options are available, including laser treatment, tumor stenting, or photodynamic therapy. For most patients, their ability to eat can be restored satisfactorily using these procedures.

A multidisciplinary team: gastroenterologist, surgeon, oncologist (cancer specialist), radiation oncologist, nurse, dietitian, and social worker join in the facilitation of patient treatment and care.

About the Author:

Dave Casey is a freelance medical writer for Mesothelioma-Adviser.com, a popular site providing mesothelioma cancer help. Visit the site for additional info on mesothelioma asbestos cancer and mesothelioma clinical trials

Mesothelioma Risk Calculator

2007-07-12T01:18:00.001-07:00

Mesothelioma Risk Calculator
By Jennifer White

Mesoblog proudly presents mesothelioma risk calculator. This is a unique risk calculator that has been specially devised keeping in mind the seriousness and the importance of mesothelioma cancer. This mesothelioma risk calculator has been designed after giving careful consideration to the necessary conditions measured against the circumstances that can cause mesothelioma.

The end result is an almost accurate mesothelioma risk calculator that collects all the relevant information that might have a hand in causing mesothelioma such as asbestos exposure, smoking and other genetic or environmental factors.

After measured calculation, you get the result for your mesothelioma risk factors. Depending on the factors that you chose, your result will indicate if you have any chance of suffering from mesothelioma cancer or asbestos.

There are a large number of people who can benefit from this mesothelioma risk calculator. If you are afraid that you worked in a place where asbestos exposure could have taken place or if you wonder that they symptoms you are experiencing stem from mesothelioma, this is time for you to make use of this mesothelioma calculator and confirm your doubts.

Mesoblog.org mesothelioma risk calculator will tell you in clear terms if you are suffering from mesothelioma, if you are at risk of suffering from disease or if you have any chance at all of getting this malignant cancer. Calculate your mesothelioma risk for free.

Feel free to check out your mesothelioma risk factors by taking full advantage of our mesothelioma risk calculator at http://www.mesoblog.org/

Jennifer White is a professional Health Writer having expertise in the field of cancer especially mesothelioma and lung cancer. Checkout her medical information portal on mesothelioma cancer

2007-07-12T00:42:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma and Compensation - Who is Responsible?
By Nathalie Fiset

Compensation is the greatest factor that drives people; it is considered as the greatest motivator of all things. Yet, compensation instigates more than plain monetary satisfaction. Above all things, it can give back whatever was lost.

Such is the case with mesothelioma and compensation. People who have acquired mesothelioma deem it necessary receive the proper compensation they deserve. Why? Simply because it is not their intention to get sick with mesothelioma.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma refers to progressive growth of malignant cells found in the mesothelium, thin sheet that covers and protects the vital organs of the body, such as the lungs.

Cancerous cells are described as malignant neoplasms. They demonstrate uncontrolled cell growth that follows no physiologic demand. When an abnormal cell is transformed by the genetic mutation of the cellular DNA, cancerous cells are formed. The cells infiltrate the tissues that surround them and gain access to lymph and blood vessels, which carry the cells to other areas of the body.

Normally, cancerous cells that develop in the mesothelium and eventually lead to mesothelioma are caused by glass-like particles that stick in the lungs. These particles come from asbestos, the common element used in building infrastructures. Asbestos is very popular in the industrial and construction field because of its high resistance against fire.

People who are exposed to asbestos have been found out to be the common patients diagnosed with mesothelioma. This is because the particles from asbestos that stick within the lungs tend to create cancerous cells. The damage caused by the process develops a disease process that triggers the growth of cancerous cells, where cell membranes are altered.

Overview of Mesothelioma and Compensation

Statistics show that nearly 80% of people afflicted with mesothelioma were working in the industrial field and construction area. Although mesothelioma is not a single disease with a single cause, the greatest common factor in developing the disease is asbestos.

Hence, society deems it necessary for these industries or employers, in general, to be responsible in providing the right compensation to their employees.

Issues on mesothelioma and compensation focus more on the privileges endowed to employees who have been sick with mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos at work. The underlying connection between mesothelioma and compensation is seen in the lawsuits filed against the employers. Generally, these legal actions are done to claim financial damages from the company, who is entirely accountable for the safety of their employees working environment and for the implementation of safety gear against such hazards as asbestos.

Compensation for mesothelioma cases usually covers medical bills and other expenses related to mesothelioma, such as loss for daily wages or inability to provide their family with the quality life due to their non-working status.

People who are generally entitled for mesothelioma compensation are those who worked in the building, custodial, construction, shipyard, and automotive industry.

To know more about mesothelioma and compensation:

1. It must be a cancer

Not everyone who had been exposed to asbestos can immediately file for mesothelioma compensation. The number factor to consider for such claims is the development of cancer. The gravity of asbestos exposure will determine the condition that states one’s eligibility for mesothelioma compensation.

2. Find a good lawyer

Not all mesothelioma lawyers can help you in claiming your compensation. Moreover, most mesothelioma lawyers that render services for mesothelioma compensation charge high fees. Hence, not everybody can afford to hire a mesothelioma lawyer.

However, some lawyers are willing to provide a "no win, no pay" agreement. By the time they win the case, the lawyer shares a certain percentage on the compensation. Hence, it is best that you find a good lawyer for you to obtain the right claims for you.

3. State laws

Mesothelioma compensation may vary from one state to another. This means that the existing state laws regarding mesothelioma lawsuits will be applicable only within its jurisdiction. Hence, not all provisions stated in a certain mesothelioma compensation are applicable on the other mesothelioma cases in different states.

Indeed, mesothelioma compensation can be very helpful in answering financial problems caused by mesothelioma. Reports show that mesothelioma patients can claim as much as $3 million. So if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, file your mesothelioma compensation now.

For more information on mesothelioma please go to:
http://www.greatmesotheliomalawyer.com/mesothelioma-and-compensation.html
http://www.greatmesotheliomalawyer.com
http://www.drnathaliefiset.com

I Was a Paramedic For 14 Years

2007-07-12T00:40:00.000-07:00

I Was a Paramedic For 14 Years
By Phil Mitchell

No other group of people where as pleased to be alive as the patients I used to take for their cancer treatment.

I used to take people to hospital with broken legs, eye problems, back problems, etc.. They all sat their with long faces, like they where on a bus, or in a taxi, going for dental treatment.

Not so my cancer people. It was like being a member of a select club. They would come on-board with stories to tell, greet each other, exchange all types of home made food. I loved Mrs. Lavines "cookies". That didn't come out, quit as I planed to say it. OK Mrs. Johnson's, fudge dummies were the best I have ever tasted. Sorry done it again.

The truth is, I miss those Ladies, and Gentlemen. I became friends with many of my patients. I am now retired, but I used to be invited for Christmas dinner, Birthday parties, Weddings, anniversaries, and unfortunately funerals.

I will miss all those lovely people. People who have a passion for life. It's not that they have gone anywhere. It's me, I have moved to Thailand. That's why I will miss them. I have discovered my life through those great people. It is through my contact with all those great characters, I have found out one thing "This is not a practice" we only get one life. And they have shown me that I should enjoy every minute of it.

Their is one thing I came across, and I am still finding. Many people don't have an heir, or family to leave their estate to. After some research I found out that in California alone $2.4 Billion in unclaimed property goes up in smoke. It goes to the (BUP) Buriew of Unclaimed Properties. I have set up a contact web site to help the hundreds of thousands of us who are alone. Why let the government take all our hard earned cash? When all we need to do is set up a reciprocal Will. It's a fact of life, one day we will expire. Lets get together and help each other. It might be you who benefits.

Take a look at http://www.Their4u.com it could be a life changing experience.

Is Mesothelioma a Sleeping Dragon?

2007-07-12T00:34:00.000-07:00

Is Mesothelioma a Sleeping Dragon?
By Phil Hariram

Asbestos is a substance found naturally. It is made of strong flexible fibres. It was used extensively in industry because the fibres are not affected by heat or chemicals and a poor conductor of electricity. It is estimated that over 5,000 products have or had asbestos in them.

Of the six types of asbestos, only four are used commercially. These are chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite and anthrophyllite. Of these, crysotile or white asbestos accounts for 99% used in USA. In it natural state or well contained and maintained in products, asbestos do not pose a real hazard. It is when asbestos is broken down and fibres are released that there is concern.

Asbestos fibres are very thin and sharp. The fibre is 2,000 times thinner than a human hair. It measures under 0.3 microns or one millionth of a millimetre in diameter and five microns in length. It is not visible with the naked eye or through a microscope. When released, the fibres remain in the atmosphere for a long time and can be carried great distances. When the fibres are inhaled, they stick to the lung tissue and are not expelled by breathing out or coughing. Some remain in the lungs, others gravitate into the pleural lining.

Asbestos exposure can lead to disease and develops over a long period of time. Asbestos related diseases are asbestosis, pleural plaques and lung cancers. The lung cancer can be either cancer of the lung itself or mesothelioma, a cancer of the lung lining. These cancers can take between 20 and 50 years to develop. A recent article in a UK Newspaper highlighted the case of a Hospital Consultant who developed mesothelioma. He cannot recall any exposure to asbestos. It may well be that he was inadvertently exposed to asbestos without his knowledge i.e. such as living in the vicinity of a factory that leaked asbestos into the atmosphere.

Professor Peto has shown that new cases of mesothelioma will continue to increase in the early part of the twenty first century. He also said, “Every single person in the UK has asbestos in their lungs. It is the level of exposure that is important.”

We also know that people who has a history of asbestos exposure has a greater risk of lung cancer if they smoked. In a survey in 1992, 2602 individuals with lung cancer were interviewed. One in eight was exposed to asbestos and of these a third still smoked. A US study suggested that non-smokers exposed to asbestos have a five times greater risk of lung cancer. If they smoked, then the risk increased by a factor of 11. Smoking and asbestos exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer to 52 times that of the general population.

At present no one knows how many lung cancers are due to asbestos exposure because of the long latency period and that cigarette smoking remains the major cause. Mesothelioma, however, is caused by asbestos exposure and this has been the basis of numerous high value legal claims.

As for the future, in the USA and Europe, asbestos related diseases will gradually increase to a peak. Of concern, however, are areas of conflict. In the Middle East, when a building was bombed, or when numerous buildings were bombed during the invasion of Iraq, do we have any idea how much asbestos was released into the atmosphere?

We are, however, certain that during the 9/11 disaster, asbestos fibres were released. When the Twin Tower collapsed, there were 400 tons of asbestos in the structure. The toxic cloud that hung over Manhattan, contained high level of asbestos. It is estimated that over 100,000 people suffered asbestos exposure. The greatest exposure was amongst first responders. Deborah Reeve was the first to die from asbestos related disease after 9/11. She was a first responder and paramedic. She died in March 2005 from mesothelioma. This concerned experts because mesothelioma takes a very long time to develop. They concluded that her exposure must have been excessive.

A study result showed that 70% of recovery and rescue workers who were active during and after the World Trade Centre collapse had some form of respiratory problem. A six year follow up study showed that sufferers with respiratory problems continue to have the same ailments. “In the six years since the attacks,” Nadler said, “We have accumulated a mountain of evidence that thousands of those exposed are suffering from chronic respiratory disease and, increasingly, a variety of rare cancers.”

Hopefully, as experts predict, within the next few years asbestos related diseases will peak and the annual new cases will drop. If not, could it be a sleeping dragon about to wake up?

Dr. Phil Hariram is retired General Practitioner. His website http://www.themesothelioma-info.com has cutting edge info.on Mesothelioma and the latest news release on Asbestos related diseases.

Mesothelioma Treatment - Radiation or Radiotherapy

2007-07-12T00:30:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma Treatment - Radiation or Radiotherapy
By Laura Russell

Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease that affects the serous linings of various internal organs in the human body. Among them, the lungs, heart and the stomach are the mostly affected.

It is estimated that each year, 2,000 new cases of Mesothelioma are reported. The patients suffering from this cancerous disease have had prior exposure to asbestos, which is considered to be the only known cause of Mesothelioma. Mesotheliomic patients are often told of the short survival duration of 6 – 12 months. But doctors specialized in treating malignant Mesothelioma at leading cancer centers expect better survival rates. Though Mesothelioma causes immense pain and suffering to the victim along with short life expectancy, certain treatments have resulted in the successful reduction and removal of the cancerous tumors of Mesothelioma. Radiation Or Rado Therapy is one of the Mesothelioma treatments available to patients suffering from the asbestos-related cancer (Mesothelioma).

RADIATION or RADIO THERAPY: Radiation or radiotherapy is a series of localized use of high-dose radiations given to a Mesothelioma patient either externally (known as external radiotherapy) or internally (known as internal radiotherapy). It destroys the cancer cells in the targeted section of the body by means of x-rays or radioactive materials.

External Radiotherapy: In external radiotherapy, radiations are passed through a patient’s body using x-rays and/or cobalt irradiation. This type of radiotherapy is a relatively painless procedure, which is divided into several sessions. Although, it reduces the size of the tumor, the external radiotherapy also damages the normal cells. Thus, the idea to have it in sessions results the damage control of normal cells that can be repaired naturally.

Internal Radiotherapy: Internal radiotherapy is a clinical procedure that delivers higher quantity of radiations to a Mesothelioma patient than the external radiotherapy. This is usually given to those patients whose cancer is on extreme stages. In internal radiotherapy, a radioactive material is placed inside the patient’s tumor or a radioactive fluid is given to a patient through mouth or injection. The radioactive material(s) then circulates throughout the body, with the help of blood, and annihilates the cancer cells.

Radiation therapy can be administered, with or without chemotherapy, after a surgery to avoid the recurrence of Mesothelioma. Doctors may also prescribe a limited amount of radiation therapy to a patient, depending on the nature, position and stage of the cancer. Certain side effects are recorded in patients who underwent radiation therapy, which were minor and diminished once the radiation treatment was over. Consult a professional oncologist for detailed information about the side effects of Mesothelioma treatments, before undergoing radiotherapy.

Laura Russell is a professional health writer in then field of Mesothelioma Cancer.

Legal Help for Asbestos Exposure

2007-07-08T03:45:00.000-07:00

Legal Help for Asbestos Exposure
By Nathalie Fiset Platinum Quality Author

Lawyers are the most helpful people you can turn to when you need legal help. It may not exactly be the most loved profession but they will always drive you through your case, whether it ends up on a full trial or if you are opting for a settlement. They may at times show no conscience but they are the ones standing before and beside you during the trial, helping you in all ways possible to make the case strong and win it.

If you are suffering from symptoms and aggravated conditions of any diseases related to asbestos exposure, you are due for compensation. Of course, the lawyers will not be able to undo the damage done by mesothelioma or asbestosis but legal help can assure you that justice can be brought into its right place. Maybe not the exact justice you want, as this will have relative meanings, but at least you have a high chance for the compensation that is due you. The compensation you get will help you manage the disease and other consequential issues.

The law on mesothelioma says that companies who willingly expose their workmen to asbestos are subject to compensation. Compensation can be received in various ways but the best way is to seek legal help and hire a reputable attorney.

There are certain guidelines that you must be mindful about when seeking compensation for asbestos exposure.

For one, you and your attorney need to establish a strong case. This is to ensure that you will win the case. Also, you cannot win the case if you cannot support your claims. For example, you have to know all the details of the exposure. What were the conditions that lead you to asbestos exposure and what were the roles of the company of the product's in exposing you to this dangerous materials. You should also be mindful to present concrete evidence. You should also be able to remember what were the conditions of the medium of exposure. If you have worked for an asbestos mining company or any workplace that used large amounts of asbestos, you should be able to remember all the details that will make the claims strong and all these should be directly related to the accused parties. If you think that the asbestos exposure came from a product, you must give the details as to the product's name, the manufacturer or distributor of the product and what were the consequences that lead to the exposure.

Asbestos exposure is not a good enough reason to file a case, you must establish concrete and substantial details before your case is absolutely admitted to the court and you can never do this without legal help.

Further, if you are filing a case against an asbestos company or any large group of people, it is recommended that you file an asbestos or mesothelioma lawsuit as a class. Remember that some large companies get protection from certain courts and there are quite a lot of restrictions and changes in the law at any given time.

It is also good to remember that large companies may have had previous asbestos law suits. In this case, they are more experienced in defending and maneuvering the law towards their victory. So it is just proper that you get a very highly regarded mesothelioma, asbestos or personal injury lawyer to handle your case. This way, he will have more resources and influence to investigate, bring to court and defend your asbestos exposure case.

You do not have to worry, however, about the personal expenses the lawsuit would incur. Personal injury lawsuits, such as mesothelioma, asbestos or any asbestos-related injuries do not require a fee. The lawyers are only paid through a contingency basis, usually relying on the percentage agreed between the attorney and the client.

Details you will be giving the lawyers and investigators will be their focal points in establishing the asbestos exposure case. Without these elements, your case will be weak and the chance of compensation is rather low.

Legal help for asbestos exposure is quite easy to get as there are plenty asbestos exposure lawsuits filed before and there are a number of lawyers focusing on types of cases like personal injury.

For more information on mesothelioma please go to:
http://www.greatmesotheliomalawyer.com/legal-help-asbestos-exposure.html
http://www.greatmesotheliomalawyer.com
http://www.drnathaliefiset.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathalie_Fiset

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

2007-07-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma Lawsuits
By Cynthia S.

Mesothelioma lawsuits are becoming more and more common. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs mostly through exposure to asbestos. If someone develops this type of cancer, it's a good bet he or she was exposed to cancer at some time in his or her past.

The cancer develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the tissue that lines our organs. It lines the pleural cavity (chest area), peritoneum (abdominal cavity) and pericardium (heart cavity). Mesothelioma has a very long latency period. It takes a while for the cancer to show up - about 40-45 years and is very fatal.

Lawsuits can be filed against employers especially if they knew that there was asbestos present on a job site. How do you know if you have grounds for a lawsuit? Just having mesothelioma is not grounds for a lawsuit. There are certain factors to be considered:

Statute of Limitations
You must file a claim within a few years of contracting mesothelioma. If you are the executor of an estate, you must file within a very short time of the victim’s death.

Where were you exposed to Asbestos?
You must be able to pinpoint the exact location where you think you were exposed.

Who is responsible?

As long as you can identify the location or building or job site, lawyers will be able to identify who is responsible.

How much compensation can you win?

Mesothelioma lawsuits can bring compensation ranging from several hundred thousands to millions depending on the respondent’s ability to pay.

Let’s hope no one ever develops this aggressive cancer, but if you do, keep in mind that a mesothelioma lawsuit is an option you should consider to not only help defray medical costs, but in the event of your passing, you will be able to provide for your heirs

For more on mesothelioma, visit http://wellness.onyxopinions.com/mesothelioma.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cynthia_S.

Mesothelioma Treatment - Chemotherapy

2007-07-08T03:43:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma Treatment - Chemotherapy
By Laura Russell

Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease that affects the serous linings of various internal organs in the human body. Among them, the lungs, heart and the stomach are the mostly affected.

It is estimated that each year, 2,000 new cases of Mesothelioma are reported. The patients suffering from this cancerous disease have had prior exposure to asbestos, which is considered to be the only known cause of Mesothelioma. Mesotheliomic patients are often told of the short survival duration of 6 – 12 months. But doctors specialized in treating malignant Mesothelioma at leading cancer centers expect better survival rates. Though Mesothelioma causes immense pain and suffering to the victim along with short life expectancy, certain treatments have resulted in the successful reduction and removal of the cancerous tumors of Mesothelioma.

Treatment of Mesothelioma depends on many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the circulation of the malignant cells, pathology reports determining the nature of the cancer cells and patient’s age and health. Following is a detail description of the options for Mesothelioma Treatment.

CHEMOTHERAPY: Chemotherapy is a “systematic treatment” of Mesothelioma that uses drugs, chemicals and medicines in an efficient manner to kill cancer cells. It is given to patients in either pills form or is injected directly into the body. In some cases, the medicines are directly inserted into the chest, known as intrapleural chemotherapy, or into the abdomen, known as intraperitoneal chemotherapy, to destroy the growth of cancerous cells. It is also given to patients before and after a surgery to limit the growth of Mesothelioma cancer.

The widely used pemetrexed, Alimta ®, is given in combination of Cisplatin (a standard platinum compound) to treat pleural Mesothelioma. The drug was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in February, 2004. The working of this drug is simple: it enters the blood stream of a patient and kills the cancer cells throughout the body, while stopping the malignant cell growth. The drug has some side-effects for which vitamin B 12 and folic acid is given to the patients undergoing this treatment.

Laura Russell is a professional health writer having expertise in then field of Mesothelioma Cancer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Russell