The Deadly Disease That Requires Immediate Medical Attention
Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that affects the protective lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, which is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction and other industries until the 1970s. Arizona has a high incidence of mesothelioma due to the state’s history of mining and industrial activities.
Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is a traumatic experience. It’s important to understand the treatment options available in Arizona, as well as the legal and financial resources that can help you and your family cope with the disease.
The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment
Mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive form of cancer that can progress rapidly. Early detection is critical for successful treatment. If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.
In Arizona, there are several medical facilities that specialize in mesothelioma treatment, including the Mayo Clinic and the University of Arizona Cancer Center. These facilities offer a variety of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Treating Mesothelioma With Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for mesothelioma. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible. There are several surgical procedures that may be used for mesothelioma, including:
| Surgical Procedure | Description |
|---|---|
| Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) | Removal of the affected lung, the lining of the lung, the diaphragm, and the lining of the heart |
| Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) | Removal of the lining of the lung and chest wall |
| Peritoneal mesothelioma surgery | Removal of the lining of the abdomen |
Surgery may be followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy for Mesothelioma
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery or as a standalone treatment. The drugs used for mesothelioma chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or directly into the chest or abdomen.
There are several chemotherapy drugs that have been approved for mesothelioma treatment, including:
| Chemotherapy Drug | Description |
|---|---|
| Alimta (pemetrexed) | A chemotherapy drug that is often used in combination with cisplatin for mesothelioma treatment |
| Cisplatin | A chemotherapy drug that is often used in combination with Alimta for mesothelioma treatment |
| Carboplatin | A chemotherapy drug that may be used as an alternative to cisplatin |
Radiation Therapy for Mesothelioma
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be given before or after surgery, or as a standalone treatment.
There are two types of radiation therapy that may be used for mesothelioma treatment:
- External beam radiation therapy: Uses a machine outside the body to deliver radiation to the affected area
- Brachytherapy: Uses a radioactive material that is placed inside the body near the affected area
Legal and Financial Resources for Mesothelioma Patients in Arizona
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Arizona, there are legal and financial resources available to help you. Because mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, there are often legal claims that can be made against companies that exposed workers to asbestos.
There are also mesothelioma-specific financial resources, such as mesothelioma trust funds and veterans benefits, that may be available to help cover medical expenses and other costs associated with the disease.
Mesothelioma Trust Funds
Mesothelioma trust funds are established by companies that have filed for bankruptcy due to asbestos-related lawsuits. These companies are required to set up trust funds to compensate victims of asbestos exposure who file claims against them.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe that your exposure to asbestos was caused by a bankrupt company, you may be able to file a claim against their trust fund. It’s important to consult with an attorney who specializes in mesothelioma cases to determine your eligibility.
Veterans Benefits for Mesothelioma
Veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their military service may be eligible for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA offers a range of benefits for veterans with mesothelioma, including disability compensation, health care, and vocational rehabilitation.
To be eligible for VA benefits, veterans must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and must have been exposed to asbestos during their military service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Mesothelioma Treatment
Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A: Symptoms of mesothelioma may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and coughing, among others.
Q: What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?
A: The survival rate for mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease and other factors. The five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is around 10%.
Q: Is mesothelioma curable?
A: While there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Q: What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
A: Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, among others.
Q: How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
A: Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans, as well as biopsy.
Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?
A: The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, so avoiding exposure to asbestos is the best way to prevent mesothelioma.
Q: How long does mesothelioma take to develop?
A: Mesothelioma can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Q: Can mesothelioma be inherited?
A: Mesothelioma is not typically an inherited condition, but there may be a genetic component to susceptibility to asbestos exposure.
Q: Can I still file a lawsuit if I was exposed to asbestos many years ago?
A: Yes, in many cases, there is a statute of limitations of several years after the diagnosis of mesothelioma during which you can file a lawsuit.
Q: What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
A: If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s essential to seek medical and legal advice as soon as possible. There are treatment options available, and you may be entitled to compensation for your illness.
Q: How much does mesothelioma treatment cost?
A: The cost of mesothelioma treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment and the stage of the disease. It’s essential to discuss the financial aspects of treatment with your medical and legal team.
Q: Can mesothelioma spread to other parts of the body?
A: Yes, mesothelioma can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, bones, and brain.
Q: What is the average age of a mesothelioma patient?
A: The average age of a mesothelioma patient is around 70 years old.
Q: What is the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos?
A: Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction and other industries until the 1970s.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that requires immediate medical attention. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s essential to seek out treatment options in Arizona and explore legal and financial resources that can help you manage the disease. Remember, early detection is critical for successful treatment, so don’t wait to seek medical advice if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos.
There is hope for mesothelioma patients, and with the right treatment and support, you can manage the disease and enjoy a good quality of life for years to come.
Closing
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that affects thousands of people each year. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek out medical and legal advice as soon as possible. The information in this article can help guide you through the treatment options and legal resources that are available in Arizona.
Remember, you are not alone in your battle against mesothelioma. There are many resources and support systems available to help you and your family manage the disease and navigate the legal and financial aspects of mesothelioma.
