Mesothelioma Resources
Each year in the United
States, approximately 2,000 new people will be
diagnosed with
mesothelioma. Unfortunately, because of the complexity of the
disease, as well as the various forms of mesothelioma
treatment, most people leave their doctor's office with more questions than answers. Luckily, there is a wealth of information on the subject of mesothelioma available in books and on the Internet. This article is by no means an exhaustive list of resources but is meant as an introduction to the various sources available. The most important source of information, however, remains your doctor. The field of medicine is constantly growing and in the end, only your doctor can provide you with the most up-to-date information and facts about your condition.
National Cancer Institute
Perhaps the best source for general information about the disease is the National
Cancer Institute. Its web site can be reached at www.cancer.gov. The web site is a treasure trove of information. It is quite possible that most questions can be answered by this website alone.
Mesothelioma Treatment Clinical Trials The site has a section specifically
about mesothelioma, with extensive information about the disease, as well as sources for further study. All information is available in English and Spanish. Here you can find a simple explanation about the disease process, the type of cells involved, and how it is caused. You can also access treatment options and learn more about the link between
asbestos exposure and the disease. If you are interested in learning about experimental
treatments and want to participate in a
clinical trial, you can download the NCI handbook “Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What
Cancer Patients Need to Know.”
After learning about the disease, you can then access information about support groups and other issues such as advance directives (living wills).
Also helpful is a lengthy section on end-of-life issues and sources of emotional support for family members.
The NCI's Cancer Information Service can also be accessed from this site. This service is meant to provide a link to the public about clinical trials and research and explain current research results in a clear and understandable manner for those without a scientific background.
Other Mesothelioma Information Sources
Other than the National Cancer Institute, there are several other organizations with equally helpful and informative websites.
Asbestos Cancer The American Cancer Society's web page can be accessed at www.cancer.org. Here, you can get information about cancer in general as well as find a comprehensive list of links dealing with mesothelioma specifically. Also the site provides information about Hope Lodges, which are free, temporary housing centers for cancer patients who must travel far from home for their treatment, including those with
asbestos cancer. These lodgings are located in several states and the ACS provides information on their location as well as contact information.
Medline Plus is a service provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the U.S. Library of Medicine. The website address is www.medlineplus.gov. There is a large amount of information available here as well. Articles, links, a dictionary and encyclopedia of medical topics as well as videos of various surgeries are available. The topics range from general health issues to drugs, treatments, and patient support, for all types of cancer in general and
malignant mesothelioma specifically. You can also learn about the latest research articles or find a doctor near you.
Thankfully, the burden is not on the patient alone to understand the various aspects of mesothelioma and cancer. The NCI
Cancer Centers Program provides a list of certified cancer centers where patients can go for all their needs. These centers have been officially endorsed by the National Cancer Institute as being leaders in the field of cancer research, treatment, and prevention.
Legal Resources
Mesothelioma Litigation It is well established that mesothelioma is usually a rare disorder and that workers
exposed to asbestos have a much higher risk of developing mesothelioma. A major medical textbook acknowledges "Since epidemiological studies have shown that more than 80% of mesothelioma may be associated with asbestos exposure, documented mesothelioma in a worker with occupational
exposure to asbestos may be compensable in many parts of the United States."
Asbestos is listed as a known carcinogen. After a review of the literature and epidemiological studies, the International Agency for Research on Cancer established a list of over 60 substances that were "probably or definitely" carcinogenic. The Environmental Protection Agency provides further information about the laws and regulations regarding asbestos on their website.
If you feel that you have been injured and may be entitled to monetary
compensation, please review the wealth of indepth articles and information on
mesothelioma legal issues found on Asbestos.net or contact us for a free consultation.
Mesothelioma lawyers can provide the assistance you may need and deserve.
What is most important to realize is that you are not alone. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Most importantly, if there is something you do not understand, speak with your doctor.