* Manjit S. Bains, M.D., F.A.C.S., Thoracic Surgery at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
www.mskcc.org/prg/prg/bios/48.cfm
* Robert Cameron, M.D., Director of Thoracic Oncology at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine.
www.surgery.medsch.ucla.edu/thoracic/doctors_Cameron.shtml
* Philippe A. Chihanian, M.D., Mount Sinai Hospital, New York City.
www.mountsinai.org/
* Mark Cullen, M.D., Directory of the Yale Occupational and Environmental Medicine Program at Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
www.med.yale.edu/intmed/occmed/pages/cullen.html
* Jack A. Elias, M.D., Chief of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Section, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
www.med.yale.edu/intmed/pulmonary/faculty/elias.html
* Bruce G. Haffty, M.D., Therapeutic Radiology, Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, Connecticut.
info.med.yale.edu/ycc
* Graeme L. Hammond, M.D., Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
info.med.yale.edu/yfp/referral/surg/car.html
* David Jablons, M.D., Chief of General Thoracic Surgery at the University of California in San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center.
www.ucsf.edu/thoracic/bio.html
* Theirry Jahan, M.D., 2356 Sutter Street, 7th floor, San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 567-5581.
* Larry Kaiser, M.D., Chief of the Thoracic Oncology Research Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center in Philadelphia.
www.uphs.upenn.edu/surgery/fac/lrk.html
* Heddy Lee Kindler, M.D., University of Chicago Hospitals, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue MC 2115, Chicago, IL 60637. (773) 702-0360
www.uchospitals.edu/physicians/hedy-kindler.php
* Mark Lischner, M.D., 2 Medical Plaza, Suite 100, Roseville, CA 95661 (916) 786-7498.
www.myhealth.com/myDoctor/
* Harvey I. Pass, M.D., Chief of Thoracic Oncology at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Michigan. (This Institute is associated with Wayne State University.)
www.karmanos.org/
* Carrie A. Redlich, MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
info.med.yale.edu/intmed/cardio/occmed/redlich/redlichcv.html
* Lary Robinson, M.D., Director of the Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery and the principal Thoracic Surgical Oncologist at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Florida.
www.moffitt.usf.edu/physician/details
* Valerie Rusch, M.D., F.A.C.S., Alfred P. Sloan Chair at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
www.mskcc.org/prg/prg/bios/51.cfm
* David J. Sugarbaker, M.D., Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at Brigham & Womens Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.
www.chestsurg.org/sugbak.htmwww.moffitt.usf.edu/providers/ccj/v4n4/article4.html
* Paul Sugarbaker, M.D., at the Washington Cancer Institute in Washington, D.C.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Radiation Therapy
This treatment involves the localized use of high-dose radiation (like x-rays) on malignant tumors. Usually, it is not a primary treatment but is used in conjunction with other therapies such as surgical resection and chemotherapy. It is generally used to reduce the size of the symptomatic tumor and help relieve symptoms like pain and shortness of breath.
Factors which can limit the application of this treatment include the volume of the tumor and how near it is to vital organs.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options - Surgery
There are two main types of surgical treatment for pleural mesothelioma: extra-pleural pneumonectomy (EPP) and pleurectomy/decortication.
EPP involves the removal of the pleura, diaphragm, pericardium, and the whole lung involved with the tumor. Pleurectomy/decortication involves the removal of the pleura without removing the entire lung.
Which treatment is recommended depends on many factors, including the stage of the tumor. (The NCI has a detailed description of mesothelioma stages.) However, it is unclear if EPP provides significantly greater benefits than pleurectomy/decortication, and indeed if either is significantly more effective than non-surgical options.
A recent study followed about 400 mesothelioma patients who, between 1983 and 1998, had pleurectomy/decortication, or extra-pleural pneumonectomy (EPP), or thoracotomy. The results indicate that no one type of surgery was more effective than another in extending the survival rate. Rather, other factors seemed to determine how long people survived. These factors included the stage and cell type of the tumor, the gender of the patient, and the type of treatment(s) given together with the surgery. Click here for the text of this study.
Surgery can provide symptomatic relief and sometimes the bulk of the tumor can be removed. Surgery is often used in combination with other treatments (known as multi-modal treatments), but its value is very limited if the tumor is near any vital organs.
Both EPP and pleurectomy/decortication are complex surgeries, not performed frequently by most surgeons. They require referral to centers dedicated to such treatments. Many of these centers also specialize in other forms of mesothelioma treatment, either alone or in combination (multi-modal therapy.) You should discuss referrals with your doctor. See also: "The effect of extent of local resection on patients on patterns of disease progression in malignant pleural mesothelioma," by D.J. Stewart, et al in Ann. Thorac Surg., July 2004; 78(1):245-252.
EPP involves the removal of the pleura, diaphragm, pericardium, and the whole lung involved with the tumor. Pleurectomy/decortication involves the removal of the pleura without removing the entire lung.
Which treatment is recommended depends on many factors, including the stage of the tumor. (The NCI has a detailed description of mesothelioma stages.) However, it is unclear if EPP provides significantly greater benefits than pleurectomy/decortication, and indeed if either is significantly more effective than non-surgical options.
A recent study followed about 400 mesothelioma patients who, between 1983 and 1998, had pleurectomy/decortication, or extra-pleural pneumonectomy (EPP), or thoracotomy. The results indicate that no one type of surgery was more effective than another in extending the survival rate. Rather, other factors seemed to determine how long people survived. These factors included the stage and cell type of the tumor, the gender of the patient, and the type of treatment(s) given together with the surgery. Click here for the text of this study.
Surgery can provide symptomatic relief and sometimes the bulk of the tumor can be removed. Surgery is often used in combination with other treatments (known as multi-modal treatments), but its value is very limited if the tumor is near any vital organs.
Both EPP and pleurectomy/decortication are complex surgeries, not performed frequently by most surgeons. They require referral to centers dedicated to such treatments. Many of these centers also specialize in other forms of mesothelioma treatment, either alone or in combination (multi-modal therapy.) You should discuss referrals with your doctor. See also: "The effect of extent of local resection on patients on patterns of disease progression in malignant pleural mesothelioma," by D.J. Stewart, et al in Ann. Thorac Surg., July 2004; 78(1):245-252.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Mesothelioma Chemotherapy
Most forms of chemotherapy involve the intravenous administration of drugs such as Alimta and Cisplatin. Chemotherapeutic drugs are targeted to kill cells that are rapidly dividing by interfering with processes that occur during cell division.
Chemotherapy is an effective treatment option but comes with unpleasant side effects.
However, while cancer cells themselves divide rapidly, so do some types of healthy cells, causing some of the unpleasant side effects that are often associated with this form of treatment. Though older chemotherapy medications seemed to do little to fight mesothelioma, newer chemotherapy drugs are showing much promise.
A relatively new form of chemotherapy called heated chemotherapy is an option for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma.
This treatment is carried out following surgery, and involves the perfusion of heated chemotherapeutic medications into the peritoneum.
Chemotherapy is an effective treatment option but comes with unpleasant side effects.
However, while cancer cells themselves divide rapidly, so do some types of healthy cells, causing some of the unpleasant side effects that are often associated with this form of treatment. Though older chemotherapy medications seemed to do little to fight mesothelioma, newer chemotherapy drugs are showing much promise.
A relatively new form of chemotherapy called heated chemotherapy is an option for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma.
This treatment is carried out following surgery, and involves the perfusion of heated chemotherapeutic medications into the peritoneum.
paid Mesothelioma Surgery
Surgical treatments for mesothelioma include three main types - diagnostic surgery, curative surgery, and palliative surgery. Some types of surgery fall into more than one category.
Surgery can only be performed during mesothelioma stages I and II.
For example, thoracentesis may be used as a diagnostic procedure, and as a palliative treatment to provide symptomatic relief. Only curative surgery can potentially remove all cancer from a patient with mesothelioma.
However, for curative surgery to be effective, it is particularly important that mesothelioma be diagnosed as early as possible. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is not usually diagnosed until it reaches Stage III or IV, when surgery is not an option.
powered by asbestos
Surgery can only be performed during mesothelioma stages I and II.
For example, thoracentesis may be used as a diagnostic procedure, and as a palliative treatment to provide symptomatic relief. Only curative surgery can potentially remove all cancer from a patient with mesothelioma.
However, for curative surgery to be effective, it is particularly important that mesothelioma be diagnosed as early as possible. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is not usually diagnosed until it reaches Stage III or IV, when surgery is not an option.
powered by asbestos
Mesothelioma Lawyers
Each year, thousands of people pass away or become ill due to the negligence of asbestos manufacturers and the development of asbestos-related disease. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an illness related to asbestos such as mesothelioma, you may have legal options for compensation. In recent years, mesothelioma litigation has helped thousands receive financial assistance to cover medical expenses and lost income.
Mesothelioma, which is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure, and other asbestos-related illnesses are attributed to negligence because companies that manufactured asbestos-containing products knew about the health risks of asbestos exposure, but decided not to tell employees or leak this information to the general public. It is believed that companies which manufactured asbestos-containing materials knew about these hazards as early as the 1920s.
By the 1930s and '40s, medical evidence had clearly linked asbestos exposure to lung disease and deadly asbestos cancers. Although asbestos companies were warned of these dangers, many chose not to use alternative substances in order to keep their profits high. Mesothelioma litigation exists because of these unethical actions and asbestos manufacturers are held liable for the undue suffering of those coping with asbestos-related disease. To read more about this corporate scandal, please see The Asbestos Cover-Up.
Those diagnosed with mesothelioma have legal options and may seek compensation through mesothelioma litigation. Filing a claim against the entity responsible for your asbestos exposure may result in compensation for the costs, as well as pain and suffering, associated with asbestos-induced illnesses. The following include some of the expenses for which compensation may be pursued:
* Lost wages
* Medical bills
* Group support for you and your loved ones
* Funeral expenses
* Travel expenses relating to medical treatments
* Other expenses not covered by health insurance
A mesothelioma lawyer can review additional expenses that could be covered under each claim, as each case varies. It is important to save all medical and financial records relating to asbestos-induced illness for this purpose. Aside from providing these types of documents and answering questions about how you may have been exposed to asbestos, you will not have to be involved with other stages of the case. Mesothelioma lawyers understand their clients may be too tired to deal with the details of filing a lawsuit or attending trial. For this reason, mesothelioma lawyers handle every aspect of the case.
Mesothelioma Litigation - Types of Lawsuits
There are two types of lawsuits that can be filed in asbestos injury cases. If a family member has passed away from an asbestos-related disease, a wrongful death suit can be filed. In a personal injury claim, the individual suffering with an asbestos-related illness must be the one to file suit. Specific rights in these lawsuits depend on the county and state where the case is filed.
Employees of companies that used asbestos are not the only individuals who have rights against asbestos manufacturers. Although the vast majority of mesothelioma litigation cases are between primary asbestos exposure victims and the manufacturers of asbestos containing products, other groups have rights as well. For example, if you experienced secondary exposure and have developed an asbestos-related disease because a spouse or family member worked with asbestos, you may also have a claim.
Additional Resources
powers by asbestos
Mesothelioma, which is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure, and other asbestos-related illnesses are attributed to negligence because companies that manufactured asbestos-containing products knew about the health risks of asbestos exposure, but decided not to tell employees or leak this information to the general public. It is believed that companies which manufactured asbestos-containing materials knew about these hazards as early as the 1920s.
By the 1930s and '40s, medical evidence had clearly linked asbestos exposure to lung disease and deadly asbestos cancers. Although asbestos companies were warned of these dangers, many chose not to use alternative substances in order to keep their profits high. Mesothelioma litigation exists because of these unethical actions and asbestos manufacturers are held liable for the undue suffering of those coping with asbestos-related disease. To read more about this corporate scandal, please see The Asbestos Cover-Up.
Those diagnosed with mesothelioma have legal options and may seek compensation through mesothelioma litigation. Filing a claim against the entity responsible for your asbestos exposure may result in compensation for the costs, as well as pain and suffering, associated with asbestos-induced illnesses. The following include some of the expenses for which compensation may be pursued:
* Lost wages
* Medical bills
* Group support for you and your loved ones
* Funeral expenses
* Travel expenses relating to medical treatments
* Other expenses not covered by health insurance
A mesothelioma lawyer can review additional expenses that could be covered under each claim, as each case varies. It is important to save all medical and financial records relating to asbestos-induced illness for this purpose. Aside from providing these types of documents and answering questions about how you may have been exposed to asbestos, you will not have to be involved with other stages of the case. Mesothelioma lawyers understand their clients may be too tired to deal with the details of filing a lawsuit or attending trial. For this reason, mesothelioma lawyers handle every aspect of the case.
Mesothelioma Litigation - Types of Lawsuits
There are two types of lawsuits that can be filed in asbestos injury cases. If a family member has passed away from an asbestos-related disease, a wrongful death suit can be filed. In a personal injury claim, the individual suffering with an asbestos-related illness must be the one to file suit. Specific rights in these lawsuits depend on the county and state where the case is filed.
Employees of companies that used asbestos are not the only individuals who have rights against asbestos manufacturers. Although the vast majority of mesothelioma litigation cases are between primary asbestos exposure victims and the manufacturers of asbestos containing products, other groups have rights as well. For example, if you experienced secondary exposure and have developed an asbestos-related disease because a spouse or family member worked with asbestos, you may also have a claim.
Additional Resources
powers by asbestos
Monday, March 29, 2010
Mesothelioma Clinics
University of Alabama Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center
1824 6th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294
Arizona[ back to top ]
Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center
1111 E. McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ 85006
CTCA Western Regional Medical Center
14200 W. Fillmore Street
Goodyear, AZ 85338
University of Arizona Cancer Center
1515 North Campbell Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85724
California[ back to top ]
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
8700 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048
City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center
1500 East Duarte Road
Duarte, CA 91010
Mt. Zion Medical Center Comprehensive Cancer Center
1600 Divisadero Street
3rd Floor/4th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94143
Salk Institute Cancer Center
10010 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
Stanford Cancer Center
875 Blake Wilbur Drive
Stanford, CA 94305
The Burnham Institute
10901 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
University of California at Irvine Cancer Center
Building #23 4th Floor
101 The City Drive
Orange, CA 92868
University of California at San Diego Cancer Center
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093
University of California Los Angeles Medical Center
Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Care Center
200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 365B
Los Angeles, CA 90095
University of California San Francisco Medical Center
505 Parnassus Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94122
USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
1441 Eastlake Avenue MS #83
Los Angeles, CA 90033
Colorado[ back to top ]
University of Colorado at Denver Health Sciences Center
Anschultz Medical Campus
13001 E. 17th Place
Aurora, CO 80045
University of Colorado Cancer Center
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center
12801 E. 17th Avenue
Aurora, CO 80010
Connecticut[ back to top ]
Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center
333 Cedar Street
PO Box 208040
New Haven, CT 06520
District Of Columbia[ back to top ]
Lombardi Cancer Research Center
Georgetown University Medical Center
3800 Reservoir Road NW
Washington, DC 20007
Florida[ back to top ]
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
12902 Magnolia Drive
Tampa, FL 33612
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Medical School
1475 Northwest 12th Avenue, Room 4023
Miami, FL 33136
Georgia[ back to top ]
Georgia Cancer Specialists
1835 Savoy Drive
Atlanta, GA 30341
Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University
1365C Clifton Road
Atlanta, GA 30322
Hawaii[ back to top ]
Cancer Research Center of Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa
1236 Lauhala Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Illinois[ back to top ]
Cancer Treatment Centers of America
1336 Basswood Road
Schaumburg, IL 60173
CTCA Midwestern Regional Medical Center
2520 Elisha Avenue
Zion, IL 60099
Edward Hospital Multi-Disciplinary Thoracic Oncology Clinic
801 S. Washington Street
Naperville, IL 60540
Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center
Northwestern University
303 East Chicago Avenue
Olson Pavilion, Room 8250
Chicago, IL 60611
University of Chicago Cancer Research Center
5841 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
Indiana[ back to top ]
Purdue University Cancer Center
Hansen Life Sciences Research Building
South University Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Kansas[ back to top ]
Cancer Center of Kansas
Heritage Plaza Medical Building
818 N. Emporia, #403
Wichita, KS 67214
Louisiana[ back to top ]
Ochsner Cancer Institute
1514 Jefferson Highway
New Orleans, LA 70121
Maine[ back to top ]
The Jackson Laboratory
600 Main Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Maryland[ back to top ]
Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center
600 North Wolfe Street
Baltimore, MD 21287
National Cancer Institute
6116 Executive Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20892
University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center
22 S. Greene Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
1824 6th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294
Arizona[ back to top ]
Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center
1111 E. McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ 85006
CTCA Western Regional Medical Center
14200 W. Fillmore Street
Goodyear, AZ 85338
University of Arizona Cancer Center
1515 North Campbell Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85724
California[ back to top ]
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
8700 Beverly Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048
City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center
1500 East Duarte Road
Duarte, CA 91010
Mt. Zion Medical Center Comprehensive Cancer Center
1600 Divisadero Street
3rd Floor/4th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94143
Salk Institute Cancer Center
10010 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
Stanford Cancer Center
875 Blake Wilbur Drive
Stanford, CA 94305
The Burnham Institute
10901 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA 92037
University of California at Irvine Cancer Center
Building #23 4th Floor
101 The City Drive
Orange, CA 92868
University of California at San Diego Cancer Center
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093
University of California Los Angeles Medical Center
Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Care Center
200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 365B
Los Angeles, CA 90095
University of California San Francisco Medical Center
505 Parnassus Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94122
USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
1441 Eastlake Avenue MS #83
Los Angeles, CA 90033
Colorado[ back to top ]
University of Colorado at Denver Health Sciences Center
Anschultz Medical Campus
13001 E. 17th Place
Aurora, CO 80045
University of Colorado Cancer Center
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center
12801 E. 17th Avenue
Aurora, CO 80010
Connecticut[ back to top ]
Yale Comprehensive Cancer Center
333 Cedar Street
PO Box 208040
New Haven, CT 06520
District Of Columbia[ back to top ]
Lombardi Cancer Research Center
Georgetown University Medical Center
3800 Reservoir Road NW
Washington, DC 20007
Florida[ back to top ]
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
12902 Magnolia Drive
Tampa, FL 33612
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Medical School
1475 Northwest 12th Avenue, Room 4023
Miami, FL 33136
Georgia[ back to top ]
Georgia Cancer Specialists
1835 Savoy Drive
Atlanta, GA 30341
Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University
1365C Clifton Road
Atlanta, GA 30322
Hawaii[ back to top ]
Cancer Research Center of Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa
1236 Lauhala Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Illinois[ back to top ]
Cancer Treatment Centers of America
1336 Basswood Road
Schaumburg, IL 60173
CTCA Midwestern Regional Medical Center
2520 Elisha Avenue
Zion, IL 60099
Edward Hospital Multi-Disciplinary Thoracic Oncology Clinic
801 S. Washington Street
Naperville, IL 60540
Robert H. Lurie Cancer Center
Northwestern University
303 East Chicago Avenue
Olson Pavilion, Room 8250
Chicago, IL 60611
University of Chicago Cancer Research Center
5841 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
Indiana[ back to top ]
Purdue University Cancer Center
Hansen Life Sciences Research Building
South University Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Kansas[ back to top ]
Cancer Center of Kansas
Heritage Plaza Medical Building
818 N. Emporia, #403
Wichita, KS 67214
Louisiana[ back to top ]
Ochsner Cancer Institute
1514 Jefferson Highway
New Orleans, LA 70121
Maine[ back to top ]
The Jackson Laboratory
600 Main Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Maryland[ back to top ]
Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center
600 North Wolfe Street
Baltimore, MD 21287
National Cancer Institute
6116 Executive Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20892
University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center
22 S. Greene Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Who Gets Mesothelioma
Who gets mesothelioma can depend greatly in a number of conditions. Asbestos exposure is not limited to manufacturing work sites. Schools, churches, office buildings, and recreational centers contained significant amounts of asbestos until only a few decades ago. While those who worked in asbestos quarries and manufacturing centers are the most at risk, significant amounts of unrelated people were indirectly endangered. Furthermore, asbestos contamination affected many occupations not directly involved in the asbestos production or construction industries.
Mesothelioma in Military War Veterans – Navy personnel
Military war veterans – Navy personnel in particular - are at risk of developing mesothelioma because they were exposed to significant levels of asbestos in shipbuilding, insulation, and fire retardant materials on ship and at base. Military necessity outweighed health concerns, and thousands of innocent people and their families are now paying the price for this oversight. Even though veterans of the military cannot sue the government because of asbestos-related diseases, there are other ways to take action against those responsible. Furthermore, civilian military workers are also covered by the provisions of many special mesothelioma legal actions.
Mesothelioma in Mechanics and other Workers
Workers are the people at most risk of developing mesothelioma, because they worked directly or indirectly with the deadly materials. There are dozens of at risk jobs, but some are more dangerous than others. These include:
• Automotive mechanics
• Boiler makers
• Bricklayers
• Building Inspectors
• Carpenters
• Electricians
• Insulators
• Iron workers
• Laborers
• Longshoremen
• Maintenance workers
• Merchant marines
• Millwrights
• Painters
• Plasterers
• Plumbers
• Roofers
• Sheet metal workers
• Tile setters
• Welders
Family members of workers exposed to asbestos.
Perhaps the most tragic aspect of mesothelioma is the innocent family members of workers that had no direct exposure to the material but suffer from the disease nonetheless. Workers who dealt with this deadly material often carried microscopic asbestos fibers home with them in their clothes and hair, which caused secondary exposure to their families and friends. Over time, these innocent victims can develop mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other fatal conditions.
Other people that get mesothelioma.
There are other people that get mesothelioma besides other workers and their family members. Because asbestos was used in thousands of different industries in thousands of different locations, people with no exposure to asbestos in the workplace are now suffering from this disease. Asbestos insulation in churches, schools, recreation centers, and shopping centers can be responsible for a mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancers.
Victims of Mesothelioma.
If you are an unfortunate victim of asbestos-related mesothelioma, regardless of how you developed it, you may be entitled to take legal action against those responsible for your condition. Asbestos litigation is one of the most potent legal tools for victims of mesothelioma to reclaim the life stolen from them by the greed and deception of asbestos companies. Contact a dedicated and experienced mesothelioma attorney today.
Mesothelioma in Military War Veterans – Navy personnel
Military war veterans – Navy personnel in particular - are at risk of developing mesothelioma because they were exposed to significant levels of asbestos in shipbuilding, insulation, and fire retardant materials on ship and at base. Military necessity outweighed health concerns, and thousands of innocent people and their families are now paying the price for this oversight. Even though veterans of the military cannot sue the government because of asbestos-related diseases, there are other ways to take action against those responsible. Furthermore, civilian military workers are also covered by the provisions of many special mesothelioma legal actions.
Mesothelioma in Mechanics and other Workers
Workers are the people at most risk of developing mesothelioma, because they worked directly or indirectly with the deadly materials. There are dozens of at risk jobs, but some are more dangerous than others. These include:
• Automotive mechanics
• Boiler makers
• Bricklayers
• Building Inspectors
• Carpenters
• Electricians
• Insulators
• Iron workers
• Laborers
• Longshoremen
• Maintenance workers
• Merchant marines
• Millwrights
• Painters
• Plasterers
• Plumbers
• Roofers
• Sheet metal workers
• Tile setters
• Welders
Family members of workers exposed to asbestos.
Perhaps the most tragic aspect of mesothelioma is the innocent family members of workers that had no direct exposure to the material but suffer from the disease nonetheless. Workers who dealt with this deadly material often carried microscopic asbestos fibers home with them in their clothes and hair, which caused secondary exposure to their families and friends. Over time, these innocent victims can develop mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other fatal conditions.
Other people that get mesothelioma.
There are other people that get mesothelioma besides other workers and their family members. Because asbestos was used in thousands of different industries in thousands of different locations, people with no exposure to asbestos in the workplace are now suffering from this disease. Asbestos insulation in churches, schools, recreation centers, and shopping centers can be responsible for a mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancers.
Victims of Mesothelioma.
If you are an unfortunate victim of asbestos-related mesothelioma, regardless of how you developed it, you may be entitled to take legal action against those responsible for your condition. Asbestos litigation is one of the most potent legal tools for victims of mesothelioma to reclaim the life stolen from them by the greed and deception of asbestos companies. Contact a dedicated and experienced mesothelioma attorney today.
Mesothelioma Legal Guide
When you are faced with something as devastating as a Mesothelioma diagnosis, you have a right to seek answers about why you weren’t forewarned of the dangers of asbestos, and you have the right to seek reparations for you and your family. If you are a grieving family member or executor of the will of a person who has died from asbestos-related disease or mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a claim as well and our mesothelioma lawyer can help.
Legal details are understandably the last thing that someone wants to confront after the initial shock of an asbestos-related illness. However, taking advantage of your legal rights can create the necessary funds to finance aggressive treatment, pay off huge medical bills incurred during diagnosis, and provide financial security for your family for years to come.
Proving the link between one’s illness and their asbestos exposure is a difficult and time-consuming responsibility. This is why the guidance of an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer is critical in helping victims and their families seek and receive financial compensation for their profound suffering. A good Mesothelioma attorney understands the unique complexities involved in this kind of lawsuit, including asbestos product identification, specific asbestos-related medical issues, and specific time constraints that narrow the window of opportunity to file a claim. It’s important to find the right Mesothelioma lawyer before your state’s statutes of limitations expire, leaving you and your family grieving and empty-handed. There's no time to wait - contact our lawyers today for a free case review.
Why File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
Mesothelioma is one of the most disastrous, yet preventable, diseases of the last century. Substantial evidence has emerged proving that the dangers of asbestos exposure - the only known cause of malignant mesothelioma - have been known since as early as the 1920’s. The industry has systematically valued profits over human lives by suppressing such information. This kind of deadly deceit is both immoral and illegal.
A diagnosis of Mesothelioma is a tragic and extremely emotional experience, and the last thing on a victim’s mind is the nightmare of legal logistics. Unfortunately, this is the time when filing a lawsuit is so important, for a successful suit is one of the few ways to ensure financial security for the family, and a rare opportunity to help offset huge medical expenses that pile up during treatment and diagnosis. A successful suit can provide a financial safeguard for you and your family. Don’t wait – contact an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer today.
[Back to Top]
Mesothelioma Lawsuit FAQ
Lawsuits are perhaps the best way for mesothelioma victims to get the justice they deserve. You should not be intimidated by the legal process, and these questions should help illuminate how you can pursue financial compensation for your condition.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and the heart.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Symptoms for mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because it shares symptoms with many different conditions, or natural signs of aging. Also, different types of mesothelioma cause different symptoms.
What should people do if diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease?
Victims should follow all the directions of their doctors, but they should also contact an attorney to see if they have reason to pursue legal action against the party responsible for their injuries.
Are there time constraints for filing a Mesothelioma suit?
Yes, individual states have laws called statues of limitations, which limit how much time victims can initiate legal action.
What does the compensation cover?
The compensation you could potentially receive can cover the mounting medical bills resulting from tests and treatment for your illness, the pain and suffering you have experienced as well as the mental anguish and grief suffered by yourself and your family, and financial security for your family after you have gone.
How can I afford to pay a lawyer?
Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you do. This ensures they will devote all their energy to winning your case.
Legal details are understandably the last thing that someone wants to confront after the initial shock of an asbestos-related illness. However, taking advantage of your legal rights can create the necessary funds to finance aggressive treatment, pay off huge medical bills incurred during diagnosis, and provide financial security for your family for years to come.
Proving the link between one’s illness and their asbestos exposure is a difficult and time-consuming responsibility. This is why the guidance of an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer is critical in helping victims and their families seek and receive financial compensation for their profound suffering. A good Mesothelioma attorney understands the unique complexities involved in this kind of lawsuit, including asbestos product identification, specific asbestos-related medical issues, and specific time constraints that narrow the window of opportunity to file a claim. It’s important to find the right Mesothelioma lawyer before your state’s statutes of limitations expire, leaving you and your family grieving and empty-handed. There's no time to wait - contact our lawyers today for a free case review.
Why File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
Mesothelioma is one of the most disastrous, yet preventable, diseases of the last century. Substantial evidence has emerged proving that the dangers of asbestos exposure - the only known cause of malignant mesothelioma - have been known since as early as the 1920’s. The industry has systematically valued profits over human lives by suppressing such information. This kind of deadly deceit is both immoral and illegal.
A diagnosis of Mesothelioma is a tragic and extremely emotional experience, and the last thing on a victim’s mind is the nightmare of legal logistics. Unfortunately, this is the time when filing a lawsuit is so important, for a successful suit is one of the few ways to ensure financial security for the family, and a rare opportunity to help offset huge medical expenses that pile up during treatment and diagnosis. A successful suit can provide a financial safeguard for you and your family. Don’t wait – contact an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer today.
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Mesothelioma Lawsuit FAQ
Lawsuits are perhaps the best way for mesothelioma victims to get the justice they deserve. You should not be intimidated by the legal process, and these questions should help illuminate how you can pursue financial compensation for your condition.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and the heart.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Symptoms for mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because it shares symptoms with many different conditions, or natural signs of aging. Also, different types of mesothelioma cause different symptoms.
What should people do if diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease?
Victims should follow all the directions of their doctors, but they should also contact an attorney to see if they have reason to pursue legal action against the party responsible for their injuries.
Are there time constraints for filing a Mesothelioma suit?
Yes, individual states have laws called statues of limitations, which limit how much time victims can initiate legal action.
What does the compensation cover?
The compensation you could potentially receive can cover the mounting medical bills resulting from tests and treatment for your illness, the pain and suffering you have experienced as well as the mental anguish and grief suffered by yourself and your family, and financial security for your family after you have gone.
How can I afford to pay a lawyer?
Most mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you do. This ensures they will devote all their energy to winning your case.
Cancer Centers in the USA and Abroad
# American Association for Cancer Research (USA) Founded in 1907; the AACR is a scientific society of over 15,000 laboratory and clinical cancer researchers. The site provides details of the organisation, conferences, publications, mebership, journals etc.
# American Cancer Society (USA) A non-profit organisation with over 3400 offices located in all 50 states, plus Puerto Rico. The site has information for both the public and health professionals including information about ACS programs, specific cancers, local branch details etc.
# American Society of Clinical Oncology (USA) ASCO Online includes information for health professionals and for people living with cancer. Details of meetings, abstracts, membership etc.
# American Thoracic Society An independently incorporated, international, educational and scientific society, founded in 1905, with a focus on respiratory and critical care medicine. There is a detailed public site with detailed information and also a members area.
# Asociacion Espanola Contra el Cancer
# Association for International Cancer Research (UK) AICR is an independent Scottish based charity funding research into the cause and prevention of cancer by eminent and promising scientists throughout the world.
# Australian Cancer Society The ACS is a national federation of community-based cancer organisations, each of which is the expert centre for cancer control in its own State or Territory. ACS activities include treatment, research, education, and support.
# Barncancerföreningarnas Riksförbund - Children Cancer Foundation of Sweden. (Sweden) Swedish language.
# British Association for Cancer Research (UK) The BACR was formed in 1960 to advance cancer research and encourage the exchange of information. This site includes details about membership, meetings, and fellowships.
# Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) / National Cancer Institute of Canada (Canada) CCS was founded in 1938, this web site provides details of the divisions, services, and mission of the CCS. There are details of the Cancer Information Service (toll free help line). Information is in both English and French language.
# Cancer BACUP (UK) A UK cancer charity providing information and support for cancer patients. The site offers detailed cancer information for many types of cancer and a wide range of related topics written by oncologists specifically for cancer patients.
# Cancer Research Foundation of America (USA) a national non-profit organization launched in 1985 committed to cancer prevention through research and education.
# Cancer Research Institute (USA) Supports national research into new cancer treatments, especially immunotherapy
# Cancer Society of Finland Founded in 1936, the Cancer Society of Finland is a national public health organisation composed of 12 regional cancer societies and four patient organisations. The Web site includes details of the Society and has some English language pages.
# Cancer Society of New Zealand A non-profit organization with six regional divisions; devoted to providing support, education, and funding of cancer research in New Zealand. Includes cancer related information in dowloadable PDF file
# CancerHelp UK An educational Web site of Cancer Research UK. It includes information by cancer type and answers to frequently asked questions.
# Coalition of National Cancer Cooperative Groups, Inc (USA) founded in 1997 by six of Cancer Cooperative Groups that are funded primarily by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The web site includes details about the CNCCG and its programmes.
# Danish Cancer Society - Kræftens Bekæmpelses The Danish Cancer Society was founded in 1928 and now has over 250,000 members organised into 160 local units. The Web site includes an English language page with details of the society and cancer registry.
# Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) (USA) ECOG, established in 1955, is a large cooperative group running clinical trials in adult cancers. As well as information for members there is a public area including details of ECOG, clinical trials, participating institutions, publications etc.
# European Association for Cancer Research EACR was founded in 1968 and aims to advance cancer research by facilitating communication between research workers including the organization of meetings. Details about the organization, membership, fellowships, publications, meetings etc.
# European Association for NeuroOncology EANO is an organisation for Neurooncologists in Europe formed in 1994. This site includes a background to the organisation, membership details, reports from scientific meetings, clinical trial details, a calendar of events, and links to related sites
# European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) The Web site includes lists of on-going EBMT trials, transplant guidelines, news and publications by working party. There are also links to the password protected registry servers.
# European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) The organisation was founded in 1962 in order to conduct experimental and clinical research in Europe. The EORTC central office is in Brussels.
# European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO),
# European Society for Therapeutic Radiation and Oncology (ESTRO) ESTRO, founded in 1980 is a society for professionals involved in the field of radiotherapy and oncology. The Web site includes details about the organisation, research, publications, events and other related information.
# Federation Nationale des Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer (FNCLCC) A French language site.
# Federation of European Cancer Societies FECS is a non-profit scientific organisation, founded in 1981, to promote and coordinate collaboration between European societies. The Web site includes details about FECS, membership, programs, conferences and contact information.
# Food and Drug Administration (USA) FDA is the primary governmental consumer protection agency. The Web site includes details of the Center for Drugs Evaluation and Research and other relevant sections on toxicology, medical products and radiological health.
# German Cancer Research Centre (Heidelberg)
# Health Canada - Cancer Bureau (Canada) The Bureau conducts and is developing cancer surveillance programs and risk assessment networks. Details about the bureau and its divisions, publications, links etc. English and French Language.
# Hellenic Cancer Society Greek and English language
# Histiocyte Society Hosted at The Texas Children's Cancer Center and Hematology Service this Web site provides details about the Histiocyte Society, information about histiocytosis etc.
# Icelandic Cancer Society The Society was founded in 1951 and is an association composed of 24 local voluntary cancer divisions and patient organisations. The Web site has English language support and includes details of programs and the national registry.
# Instituto Nacional de Cancer (Brazil) INCA is a body of the Ministry of Health responsible for the national cancer control program. The Web pages include both Spanish and English language pages with details of services, research, and education and tobacco control.
# Intercultural Cancer Council (USA) The ICC aims to promote policies to improve care and treatment in minorities and medically underserved cancer patients.
# Irish Cancer Society (Ireland) The Society was founded in 1963 and is a national charity dedicated to cancer care, research and education. The web site includes details of the society's programs and support groups.
# Israel Cancer Association (Israel) The Association was founded in 1952, and the web site contains details of ICA, description of services, public awareness resources, research information etc. The site includes English language support.
# Italian Institute of Cancer Research Genova (Italian Language)
# Lega Italiana per la Lotta contro Tumori - Italian League for the Fight Against Cancer (Rome, Italy) a non-profit, volunteer organization involved in cancer education, support, and research. Italian language.
# Medical Research Council (UK) The MRC is a government funded body involved in medical research, including clinical trials and research into cancer.
# Musculoskeletal Tumor Society: A non-profit organization bringing together orthopaedic surgeons and other physicians to forward musculoskeletal oncology research. MSTS was founded in the early 1980's and has members accross North and South America
# National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations (NABCO) (USA) Founded in 1986, NABCO is a non-profit organisation with over 400 member organizations providing information for physicians, patients and their families. The site includes information on cancer, clinical trials and support groups.
# National Cancer Center (Japan) Information in both English and Japanese
# National Cancer Control Initiative (Australia) The NCCI was launched in 1997 advise on cancer control, it is a partnership of the Australian Cancer Society and the Commonwealth. The site includes information on specific projects, publications, links etc.
# National Cancer Institute (USA) The NCI is one of the National Institutes of Health and is a major funder of research in the USA. Online cancer information includes CancerNet PDQ statements for patients and physicians.
# National Cancer Institute of Canada - Clinical Trials Group The NCIC Clinical Trials Group offices are located at Queen's University at Kingston. The group conducts national and international clinical trials. The Web site includes details of current trials, publications, details of meetings and related news.
Mesothelioma Treatment Centers
ALABAMA
Birmingham
University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center
1824 Sixth Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-3300
ALASKA
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, Fairbanks, AK
CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles
Tower Hematology/Oncology
8635 West Third Street, Suite 665W
Los Angeles, CA 90048
San Diego
Sharp Health Care
10835 Road to the Cure
San Diego, CA 92121
COLORADO
Denver
University of Colorado
4200 East 9th Avenue, B-189
Denver, CO 80262
FLORIDA
Miami
Oncology Hematology Group of South Florida
8940 North Kendall Drive, Suite 300E
Miami, FL 33176
ILLNOIS
Chicago
University of Chicago Medical Center, Section of Hematology/Oncology
5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC2115
Chicago, IL 60637-1470
KENTUCKY
Louisville
Kentuckiana Cancer Institute
100 E. Liberty Street, Suite 502
Louisville, KY 40202
MASSACHUSETTS
Worcester
Umass Memorial Cancer Center
Division of Hematology/Oncology
55 Lake Avenue North
Worcester, MA 01655-001
NEW JERSEY
Somerville
Somerset Medical Center
110 Rehill Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876
NEW YORK
New York City
Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center
161 Fort Washington Avenue
New York, NY 10032
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia
Presbyterian Medical Center, U. PA Health System
Medical Arts Building
51 North 39th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
TENNESSEE
Knoxville
Thompson Cancer Survival Center
1915 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
TEXAS
Austin
Lone Star Oncology
11044 Research Boulevard, Suite D400
Austin, TX 78759
Houston
S. R. Burzynski Clinic
9432 Old Katy, Suite 200
Houston, TX 77055
Houston
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Department of Thoracic Head & Neck Med Onc, Box 432
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, TX 77030
VIRGINIA
Charlottesville
H.O.P.E.
459 Locust Ave.
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Newport News
Virginia Oncology Associates
895 Middle Ground Boulevard #200
Newport News, VA 23606
What Mesothelioma Treatment Centers Do:
Cancer centers usually provide a number of different services. Most centers concentrate their resources to treating or managing the different types of cancer of their patients. Budgets are usually very tight, and most cannot devote all their resources to patient care. Other services include spiritual, emotional, and legal counseling for the patients and their families. Cancer is responsible for a variety of ancillary conditions, and many of the patients need help coping with the side effects of treatment, or require advice on how to plan their estates.
Treating cancer in a medical center often provides the best hope for victims of mesothelioma, but the expense of travel, lodging, and treatment often prohibit many victims from pursuing adequate treatment. To this end, consulting a lawyer about potential action against the negligent parties responsible for your condition can provide the means to seek such treatment. Victims of mesothelioma know time is of the essence, but more so when you consider your state has limits on the amount of time you have to press your claim. Don’t risk losing more than you already have. Contact an attorney without delay.
Birmingham
University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center
1824 Sixth Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-3300
ALASKA
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, Fairbanks, AK
CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles
Tower Hematology/Oncology
8635 West Third Street, Suite 665W
Los Angeles, CA 90048
San Diego
Sharp Health Care
10835 Road to the Cure
San Diego, CA 92121
COLORADO
Denver
University of Colorado
4200 East 9th Avenue, B-189
Denver, CO 80262
FLORIDA
Miami
Oncology Hematology Group of South Florida
8940 North Kendall Drive, Suite 300E
Miami, FL 33176
ILLNOIS
Chicago
University of Chicago Medical Center, Section of Hematology/Oncology
5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC2115
Chicago, IL 60637-1470
KENTUCKY
Louisville
Kentuckiana Cancer Institute
100 E. Liberty Street, Suite 502
Louisville, KY 40202
MASSACHUSETTS
Worcester
Umass Memorial Cancer Center
Division of Hematology/Oncology
55 Lake Avenue North
Worcester, MA 01655-001
NEW JERSEY
Somerville
Somerset Medical Center
110 Rehill Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876
NEW YORK
New York City
Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center
161 Fort Washington Avenue
New York, NY 10032
PENNSYLVANIA
Philadelphia
Presbyterian Medical Center, U. PA Health System
Medical Arts Building
51 North 39th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
TENNESSEE
Knoxville
Thompson Cancer Survival Center
1915 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
TEXAS
Austin
Lone Star Oncology
11044 Research Boulevard, Suite D400
Austin, TX 78759
Houston
S. R. Burzynski Clinic
9432 Old Katy, Suite 200
Houston, TX 77055
Houston
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Department of Thoracic Head & Neck Med Onc, Box 432
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, TX 77030
VIRGINIA
Charlottesville
H.O.P.E.
459 Locust Ave.
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Newport News
Virginia Oncology Associates
895 Middle Ground Boulevard #200
Newport News, VA 23606
What Mesothelioma Treatment Centers Do:
Cancer centers usually provide a number of different services. Most centers concentrate their resources to treating or managing the different types of cancer of their patients. Budgets are usually very tight, and most cannot devote all their resources to patient care. Other services include spiritual, emotional, and legal counseling for the patients and their families. Cancer is responsible for a variety of ancillary conditions, and many of the patients need help coping with the side effects of treatment, or require advice on how to plan their estates.
Treating cancer in a medical center often provides the best hope for victims of mesothelioma, but the expense of travel, lodging, and treatment often prohibit many victims from pursuing adequate treatment. To this end, consulting a lawyer about potential action against the negligent parties responsible for your condition can provide the means to seek such treatment. Victims of mesothelioma know time is of the essence, but more so when you consider your state has limits on the amount of time you have to press your claim. Don’t risk losing more than you already have. Contact an attorney without delay.
Mesothelioma Doctors List
Mesothelioma Doctor in Alabama
James W. Ballard, MD
4012 Greystone Drive
Birmingham, AL 35242
email: jwballard@albreader.com
California Mesothelioma Doctor
Robert Cameron, MD
P. O. Box 951741
Los Angeles, California 90095–1741
Phone: 310–794–7333
email: rcameron@mednet.ucla.edu
David Jablon, MD
UCSF Mt. Zion Medical Center
2330 Post St., Suite 420
San Francisco, CA 94115
415–885–3882
Theirry Jahan, MD
2356 Sutter, 7th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94115
415–567–5581
Connecticut Mesothelioma Doctors
Mark Cullen, MD
Yale University School of Medicine
Occupational and Environmental
135 College Street, 3rd floor
New Haven, CT 06510–2483
Jack A. Elias, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–4163
Michael Grey, MD
UConn Health Center
263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06032
Bruce G. Haffty, MD
Therapeutic Radiology
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–2959
Graeme L. Hammond, MD
Cardiothoracic Therapy
Yale Cancer Center
203.–785–2699
Michael Kashgarian, MD
Pathology
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–2750
Ronald Ponn, MD
Thoracic Surgeon
333 Orchard St., Suite 107
New Haven, CT 06511
Carrie A. Redlich, MD, M.P.H.
Occupational Medicine
Yale Cancer Center
203–737–2817
Washington, DC Mesothelioma Doctors
Cesar A. Moran, MD
Department of the Army
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
Washington, DC 20306
Paul Sugarbaker, MD
Sugarbaker Oncology Associates, P.C.
110 Irving St., NW
Washington, DC 20010
Phone: 202–877–3908
Mesothelioma Doctor in Florida
Lary A. Robinson, MD
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
At The University of South Florida
12902 Magnolia Dr.
Tampa, FL 33612
John Ruckdeschel, MD
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center
Tampa, FL 33612–9497
Mesothelioma Doctor in Massachusetts
Richard Kraiden, MD
Pulmonary Pathologist
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, MA 02114
David Sugarbaker, MD
Dana Farber Cancer Institute &
Brighams & Womens Hospital
75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115
Michigan Mesothelioma Doctors
Harvey Pass, MD
Karmanos Cancer Institute
Detroit, MI
313–745–8746
James W. Ballard, MD
4012 Greystone Drive
Birmingham, AL 35242
email: jwballard@albreader.com
California Mesothelioma Doctor
Robert Cameron, MD
P. O. Box 951741
Los Angeles, California 90095–1741
Phone: 310–794–7333
email: rcameron@mednet.ucla.edu
David Jablon, MD
UCSF Mt. Zion Medical Center
2330 Post St., Suite 420
San Francisco, CA 94115
415–885–3882
Theirry Jahan, MD
2356 Sutter, 7th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94115
415–567–5581
Connecticut Mesothelioma Doctors
Mark Cullen, MD
Yale University School of Medicine
Occupational and Environmental
135 College Street, 3rd floor
New Haven, CT 06510–2483
Jack A. Elias, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–4163
Michael Grey, MD
UConn Health Center
263 Farmington Avenue
Farmington, CT 06032
Bruce G. Haffty, MD
Therapeutic Radiology
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–2959
Graeme L. Hammond, MD
Cardiothoracic Therapy
Yale Cancer Center
203.–785–2699
Michael Kashgarian, MD
Pathology
Yale Cancer Center
203–785–2750
Ronald Ponn, MD
Thoracic Surgeon
333 Orchard St., Suite 107
New Haven, CT 06511
Carrie A. Redlich, MD, M.P.H.
Occupational Medicine
Yale Cancer Center
203–737–2817
Washington, DC Mesothelioma Doctors
Cesar A. Moran, MD
Department of the Army
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
Washington, DC 20306
Paul Sugarbaker, MD
Sugarbaker Oncology Associates, P.C.
110 Irving St., NW
Washington, DC 20010
Phone: 202–877–3908
Mesothelioma Doctor in Florida
Lary A. Robinson, MD
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
At The University of South Florida
12902 Magnolia Dr.
Tampa, FL 33612
John Ruckdeschel, MD
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center
Tampa, FL 33612–9497
Mesothelioma Doctor in Massachusetts
Richard Kraiden, MD
Pulmonary Pathologist
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, MA 02114
David Sugarbaker, MD
Dana Farber Cancer Institute &
Brighams & Womens Hospital
75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115
Michigan Mesothelioma Doctors
Harvey Pass, MD
Karmanos Cancer Institute
Detroit, MI
313–745–8746
Mesothelioma Awareness
For the past several years, a non-profit organization known as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF), a collaboration of patients and families, physicians, advocates, and researchers, has been hard at work spreading the word to the general public about the dangers of asbestos and the fight for a cure for mesothelioma. One of the ways they convey their message is through special events such as Mesothelioma Awareness Day.
One of the goals at MARF is to convince as many cities and/or states as possible to recognize Mesothelioma Awareness Day and to someday make it a national event. Scheduled to take place each year on September 26, the annual event includes a massive radio campaign that features the music of Warren Zevon, a legendary singer and songwriter who died of malignant mesothelioma in 2003. Radio stations around the country are being asked to play Warren’s music, followed by a brief message about the cancer aimed to raise awareness among the general public and perhaps help raise funds for further research.
MARF also offers promotional materials to local governments throughout the nation who wish to officially declare Mesothelioma Awareness Day in their town. Instructions include an official resolution and other materials about spreading the word to the public. Several states including New York, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Illinois and Kentucky have made the event official and several others are awaiting legislative action in the matter.
Recently in Congress, Senator Patty Murray (WA) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-4) introduced resolutions that would designate September 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day. With this action, MARF is one step closer to making Mesothelioma Awareness Day a national event. If you would like to learn more about mesothelioma and how you can help support awareness, please fill out this form to receive a comprehensive packet in the mail.
One of the goals at MARF is to convince as many cities and/or states as possible to recognize Mesothelioma Awareness Day and to someday make it a national event. Scheduled to take place each year on September 26, the annual event includes a massive radio campaign that features the music of Warren Zevon, a legendary singer and songwriter who died of malignant mesothelioma in 2003. Radio stations around the country are being asked to play Warren’s music, followed by a brief message about the cancer aimed to raise awareness among the general public and perhaps help raise funds for further research.
MARF also offers promotional materials to local governments throughout the nation who wish to officially declare Mesothelioma Awareness Day in their town. Instructions include an official resolution and other materials about spreading the word to the public. Several states including New York, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Illinois and Kentucky have made the event official and several others are awaiting legislative action in the matter.
Recently in Congress, Senator Patty Murray (WA) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-4) introduced resolutions that would designate September 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day. With this action, MARF is one step closer to making Mesothelioma Awareness Day a national event. If you would like to learn more about mesothelioma and how you can help support awareness, please fill out this form to receive a comprehensive packet in the mail.
Early Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Unfortunately, there are practically no early symptoms of mesothelioma, which is why the disease is commonly diagnosed at a late stage of development. In the interest of early detection, those who were exposed to asbestos but have not yet exhibited symptoms should undergo regular chest X-rays or pulmonary function tests to monitor any adverse affects of asbestos inhalation.
When a doctor informs a patient of a mesothelioma diagnosis, patients and their loved ones are often very confused since the cancer is relatively unknown. Asbestos.com provides a complimentary packet with comprehensive information about mesothelioma symptoms and next-step guidance following a diagnosis.
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the cancer, comprising approximately two-thirds of all mesothelioma cases.
Known symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
* Persistent dry or raspy cough (typically non-productive, meaning there is little or no phlegm)
* Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
* Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
* Night sweats or fever
* Unexplained weight loss of 10 percent or more
* Fatigue
* Persistent pain in the chest or rib area, or painful breathing
* Shortness of breath (dyspnea) that occurs even when at rest
* The appearance of lumps under the skin on the chest
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma occur as a result of thickening of the pleural membrane, caused by the rapid production of cancerous cells which can lead to the buildup of fluid between membrane layers. Tissue thickening and fluid buildup place pressure on the lungs, leading to reduced respiratory function.
When a doctor informs a patient of a mesothelioma diagnosis, patients and their loved ones are often very confused since the cancer is relatively unknown. Asbestos.com provides a complimentary packet with comprehensive information about mesothelioma symptoms and next-step guidance following a diagnosis.
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the cancer, comprising approximately two-thirds of all mesothelioma cases.
Known symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
* Persistent dry or raspy cough (typically non-productive, meaning there is little or no phlegm)
* Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
* Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
* Night sweats or fever
* Unexplained weight loss of 10 percent or more
* Fatigue
* Persistent pain in the chest or rib area, or painful breathing
* Shortness of breath (dyspnea) that occurs even when at rest
* The appearance of lumps under the skin on the chest
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma occur as a result of thickening of the pleural membrane, caused by the rapid production of cancerous cells which can lead to the buildup of fluid between membrane layers. Tissue thickening and fluid buildup place pressure on the lungs, leading to reduced respiratory function.
How is mesothelioma treated?
Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.
Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases a person's risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung
Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.
Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases a person's risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung
Mesothelioma, more precisely malignant mesothelioma, is a rare form of cancer that develops from the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs, the mesothelium. It is usually caused by exposure to asbestos.[1]
Its most common site is the pleura (outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall), but it may also occur in the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), the heart,[2] the pericardium (a sac that surrounds the heart) or tunica vaginalis.
Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways. It has also been suggested that washing the clothes of a family member who worked with asbestos can put a person at risk for developing mesothelioma.[3] Unlike lung cancer, there is no association between mesothelioma and smoking, but smoking greatly increases the risk of other asbestos-induced cancers.[4] Compensation via asbestos funds or lawsuits is an important issue in mesothelioma
What is Mesthelioma??
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining around the lungs, heart, and abdominal cavities - called the mesothelium - which is primarily caused by chronic exposure to asbestos or asbestos related products. As asbestos fibers enter the body, either by breathing or swallowing, they cause normally healthy cells to mutate into cancer. This exposure can come directly, such as working in an asbestos processing center, or indirectly by inhalation of residual asbestos particles remaining on clothing or building materials. Studies show that exposure as short as one year can cause a variety of asbestos-related illnesses, including mesothelioma.
Now a days in Mesothelioma
* Over 10,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related conditions each year, 3,000 in the US alone.
* It is estimated that over 110,000 schools in the United States still contain some form of asbestos.
* Even though cigarette smoking does not cause mesothelioma, victims exposed asbestos who smoke suffer a 50-90% increase in the likelihood of developing lung cancers.
* Asbestos has been banned or regulated in many industrialized countries around the world.
* Post-diagnosis survival of mesothelioma is measured in months, because by the time the cancer is detected it is too advanced for treatment.
* Because of the long dormancy of mesothelioma, experts speculate that there will be an increase of cases for the next 20 to 30 years.
* It is estimated that over 110,000 schools in the United States still contain some form of asbestos.
* Even though cigarette smoking does not cause mesothelioma, victims exposed asbestos who smoke suffer a 50-90% increase in the likelihood of developing lung cancers.
* Asbestos has been banned or regulated in many industrialized countries around the world.
* Post-diagnosis survival of mesothelioma is measured in months, because by the time the cancer is detected it is too advanced for treatment.
* Because of the long dormancy of mesothelioma, experts speculate that there will be an increase of cases for the next 20 to 30 years.
History of Mesothelioma
Asbestos has been used since ancient times. Greeks and Romans wove the fibers into tablecloths, napkins, and clothes, and threw them into fires to clean them. They also noted the slaves forced to deal with this material lived shorter lives and usually died of breathing or respiratory problems.
The first reported death caused by asbestos exposure was documented in medical journals in 1924.
The first reported death caused by asbestos exposure was documented in medical journals in 1924.
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