Mesothelioma News July 2019: Latest Updates and Developments

Welcome to our comprehensive coverage of mesothelioma news in July 2019. In this edition, we highlight the most recent developments and discoveries related to mesothelioma, an aggressive and deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It is caused by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers, which can become lodged in the body and cause cellular damage over time. While there is no known cure for mesothelioma, new treatments and research have provided hope for patients and their families.

The Rise of Mesothelioma Cases

According to recent statistics, there has been a rise in mesothelioma diagnoses in the US and around the world. In the US alone, it is estimated that there will be around 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma each year. The rise in mesothelioma cases is attributed to the widespread use of asbestos in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the past for its heat-resistant properties. It was commonly used in insulation, roofing, and other building materials, as well as in automotive parts, such as brake pads and clutch linings. However, asbestos has been found to be highly carcinogenic, and exposure to asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases.

Mesothelioma Research and Treatment Advances

Despite the lack of a cure for mesothelioma, there has been significant progress in research and treatment options for patients. Here are some of the latest developments:

1. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. In mesothelioma, immunotherapy has shown promising results in clinical trials, particularly when used in combination with chemotherapy. Keytruda and Opdivo are two immunotherapy drugs that have been approved by the FDA for mesothelioma treatment.

2. Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a cutting-edge approach to treating cancer that involves manipulating a patient’s genes to target cancer cells. While still in the early stages of development, gene therapy shows promise for mesothelioma patients, particularly those with advanced disease.

3. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that targets specific genetic mutations in cancer cells. There are several targeted therapy drugs currently being studied for mesothelioma treatment, including Vemurafenib and Crizotinib.

4. Mesothelioma Biomarkers

Biomarkers are substances in the body that can indicate the presence of cancer. Recent research has identified several biomarkers that may be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma, including soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRPs), fibulin-3, and osteopontin.

Mesothelioma News in July 2019

The following are some of the latest news stories related to mesothelioma in July 2019:

1. Lawsuit Against Johnson & Johnson

A jury in California awarded $12 million to a woman who claimed that her mesothelioma was caused by using Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder, which she had been using since she was a child. This ruling has contributed to a growing number of lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson for its alleged role in mesothelioma and ovarian cancer cases.

2. Asbestos Found in Makeup

A report by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that asbestos was present in several makeup products marketed to children. The products were made by the brand Claire’s and have since been removed from stores. This discovery highlights the ongoing issue of asbestos contamination in consumer products.

3. New Mesothelioma Treatment Center

The University of Maryland Medical Center recently opened a new center for mesothelioma treatment and research. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach to mesothelioma treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Date	News Headline
July 2, 2019	J&J Hit With $12M Verdict in California Asbestos Suit
July 23, 2019	Claire’s Recalls JoJo Siwa Makeup Kit Following Asbestos Scare
July 30, 2019	University of Maryland Medical Center Opens New Mesothelioma Treatment and Research Center

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma and the stage of the disease. Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and weight loss.

2. How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, and biopsy tests to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

3. Is Mesothelioma Always Caused by Asbestos Exposure?

While asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, there are cases of mesothelioma that have been linked to other factors, such as radiation exposure and genetic mutations.

4. Can Mesothelioma Be Cured?

There is no known cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and prolong life expectancy.

5. What is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma Patients?

The prognosis for mesothelioma patients can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the patient’s overall health. On average, patients with mesothelioma have a life expectancy of 12-21 months.

6. What Are My Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?

Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Your treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease and your overall health.

7. How Can I Prevent Mesothelioma?

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid asbestos exposure. If you work in an industry that involves asbestos, it is important to follow safety guidelines and wear protective gear. Additionally, avoid using products that contain asbestos, such as some types of insulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesothelioma remains a challenging and devastating disease, but there is hope on the horizon. With advances in research and treatments, there are more options available to patients than ever before. We encourage anyone affected by mesothelioma to seek out support and resources, and to stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments.

Thank you for reading our coverage of mesothelioma news in July 2019. We hope this article has been informative and helpful to you.

Disclaimer

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.