Most Recent News on Mesothelioma for 2017: Trends and Developments

The Mesothelioma Challenge

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops on the thin layer of tissue that covers internal organs, most commonly the lungs, and is caused by asbestos exposure. A disease with a bleak prognosis, mesothelioma affects 3,000 people in the US each year. The incidence of this cancer has not declined despite its declining use. Mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, and it has no cure. Treatment options are limited, and patients face a grim prognosis with a life expectancy of 12 to 21 months.

Mesothelioma Trends and Developments in 2017

Despite the minimal progress in mesothelioma treatment and survival rate, mesothelioma experts and researchers have made progress in 2017 towards improving diagnosis, treatment options, and patient care. Here are some of the most recent mesothelioma news and trends in 2017.

1. New FDA-Approved Treatment for Mesothelioma

In December 2017, the FDA approved the use of the first new mesothelioma drug, Lonsurf, in 20 years. Lonsurf is a chemotherapy drug that provides a new treatment option for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma, particularly for those who have previously undergone chemotherapy. This new drug, combined with immunotherapy, may potentially improve mesothelioma survival rates.

2. Advances in Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that enhances the power of the immune system to fight cancer cells. Pembrolizumab is an FDA-approved immunotherapy drug that has shown promise as a mesothelioma treatment, particularly for patients with high PD-L1 levels. PD-L1 is a protein that suppresses the immune response. Pembrolizumab blocks PD-L1, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

3. Liquid Biopsies for Early Diagnosis

Currently, there are no routine screening procedures for mesothelioma. However, the development of liquid biopsies could offer an early diagnosis of mesothelioma. Liquid biopsies are blood tests that detect cancer biomarkers in the blood, which can indicate the presence of mesothelioma cells. Researchers are exploring the potential of liquid biopsies to diagnose mesothelioma in its early stage when treatment options are most effective.

4. Clinical Trials of Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a treatment that modifies genes to treat or prevent diseases such as mesothelioma. Recently, researchers have been conducting clinical trials to test the effectiveness of viral gene therapy for mesothelioma treatment. The aim of these trials is to use modified viruses to target and kill mesothelioma cells.

5. Mesothelioma Awareness Month

April is Mesothelioma Awareness Month. This month-long campaign aims to raise awareness of mesothelioma and educate the public about the risks of asbestos exposure. This campaign highlights the need for early detection and advances in mesothelioma treatment, and provides support for those affected by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma FAQs

1. What are the typical symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, weight loss, and fatigue.

2. What causes mesothelioma?

The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.

3. How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

The latency period for mesothelioma can range from 20 to 50 years or even longer.

4. Who is at risk for mesothelioma?

Those individuals most at risk for mesothelioma are workers who were exposed to asbestos on the job, as well as their family members who may have been exposed to asbestos fibers they brought home on their clothing.

5. What are the mesothelioma treatment options?

Mesothelioma treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy.

6. What is the prognosis for mesothelioma patients?

Unfortunately, mesothelioma has a poor prognosis. The survival rate is low, with a median survival time of 12 to 21 months.

7. How can I reduce the risk of mesothelioma?

The most effective way to reduce the risk of mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos.

8. Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma.

9. What are the side effects of mesothelioma treatment?

Common side effects of mesothelioma treatment include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, and anemia.

10. Where can I find support for mesothelioma patients and their families?

Support for mesothelioma patients and their families is available through various organizations, including the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.

11. How can I participate in mesothelioma clinical trials?

Information about mesothelioma clinical trials is available through the National Cancer Institute and the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.

12. What should I do if I suspect I have been exposed to asbestos?

If you suspect you have been exposed to asbestos, you should discuss the matter with your healthcare provider and report the exposure to your employer.

13. What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you should seek medical treatment and legal advice regarding your rights and options for compensation.

Conclusion

While the prognosis for mesothelioma patients remains grim, there is hope on the horizon. Recent mesothelioma trends and developments in 2017, such as the new FDA-approved treatment, advances in immunotherapy, liquid biopsies for early diagnosis, clinical trials of gene therapy, and Mesothelioma Awareness Month, offer a glimmer of hope. Mesothelioma support and advocacy groups like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization offer emotional and practical support for patients and their families. To learn more about mesothelioma, please visit the websites of these organizations and medical centers specializing in mesothelioma treatment.

Closing/Disclaimer

This article 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 providers regarding any medical condition that you may have.

Date	Event
December 2017	FDA approves Lonsurf as the first new mesothelioma drug in 20 years
April 2017	Mesothelioma Awareness Month