In recent years, mesothelioma has become a concern for many people around the world. This rare and deadly form of cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction materials during the 20th century. Mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and typically has a poor prognosis. In this article, we will provide you with the latest mesothelioma news from the Boston Globe in 2018. We hope that this information will help you understand this disease better and take measures to protect your health.
Introduction
The Basics of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that covers many organs in the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, also known as pleural mesothelioma. Other types of mesothelioma affect the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Mesothelioma is a rare disease, with only around 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the United States. However, it is highly aggressive and usually has a poor prognosis.
Causes and Risk Factors of Mesothelioma
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the late 1970s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can get trapped in the mesothelium and cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancer. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma, but other factors such as age, gender, and genetics may also play a role.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Peritoneal mesothelioma may cause abdominal pain, swelling, and digestive problems. Pericardial mesothelioma can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, these symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced and harder to treat.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Mesothelioma
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of many other conditions. If mesothelioma is suspected, doctors may perform imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans to look for abnormalities in the affected area. Biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is taken for laboratory analysis, is the definitive way to diagnose mesothelioma. Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. The best course of treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Mesothelioma Research and Clinical Trials
As mesothelioma is a rare disease, research and clinical trials are essential to find new ways to diagnose and treat it. In recent years, there have been significant advances in mesothelioma research, such as the discovery of new biomarkers and the development of immunotherapy drugs. Clinical trials are ongoing to test new treatments and combinations of treatments. If you have mesothelioma, you may want to consider participating in a clinical trial to access the latest therapies and contribute to scientific knowledge.
Mesothelioma Law and Compensation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation from the companies that exposed you to asbestos. Mesothelioma lawsuits are complex and require the help of a qualified attorney who specializes in this area of law. You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Additionally, some mesothelioma victims may be eligible for veterans benefits or other forms of financial assistance.
Mesothelioma Advocacy and Support
Coping with mesothelioma can be challenging for both patients and their families. Therefore, it is essential to seek out support from advocacy organizations, support groups, and other resources. These resources can provide information about mesothelioma, connect you with other people affected by the disease, and offer emotional support. Some advocacy organizations also work to raise awareness of mesothelioma and promote research and public policy changes to prevent future cases.
Mesothelioma News 2018 Boston Globe
New Clinical Trial Shows Promise for Mesothelioma Patients
Researchers at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston have conducted a clinical trial of a new immunotherapy drug for mesothelioma. The drug, called pembrolizumab, was tested in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced mesothelioma. The trial showed that the drug combination was well-tolerated and had a response rate of 76%, meaning that the tumors shrunk or remained stable in the majority of patients. This is an exciting development for mesothelioma treatment, as immunotherapy has shown promise in other types of cancer as well.
Boston Company Settles Mesothelioma Lawsuits for $120 Million
A Boston-based company, W.R. Grace & Co., has settled a series of lawsuits related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The lawsuits allege that the company knew about the dangers of asbestos but failed to warn its employees or users of its products. The settlement will provide compensation to hundreds of mesothelioma victims and their families. This settlement is one of the largest in mesothelioma litigation history, and it sends a message to other companies that they will be held accountable for their actions.
Mesothelioma Advocacy Group Hosts Annual Symposium in Boston
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) held its annual symposium in Boston in 2018. The symposium brought together researchers, clinicians, patients, and advocates to discuss the latest developments in mesothelioma research and treatment. The topics covered included immunotherapy, molecular profiling, and clinical trials. The symposium also provided a platform for patients and their families to share their experiences and connect with others in the mesothelioma community.
Massachusetts General Hospital Launches New Mesothelioma Program
Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston has launched a new program dedicated to mesothelioma treatment and research. The program offers comprehensive care to patients with mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services. Additionally, the program conducts research to develop new treatments and improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients. This program is an important addition to the mesothelioma treatment landscape in Boston and beyond.
Boston Law Firm Wins $7.5 Million Verdict in Mesothelioma Case
A Boston-based law firm, Thornton Law Firm, LLP, won a $7.5 million verdict in a mesothelioma case in 2018. The case involved a man who worked as a carpenter and was exposed to asbestos from various construction materials. The verdict was based on the company’s failure to provide adequate warnings about the risks of asbestos exposure. This case shows that mesothelioma victims can hold companies accountable for their negligence and obtain significant compensation.
Non-Invasive Test Shows Promise for Early Detection of Mesothelioma
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a non-invasive test for mesothelioma that could detect the disease in its early stages. The test uses a nanotechnology-based sensor to detect biomarkers of mesothelioma in urine or plasma samples. The researchers tested the sensor in mice and found that it could differentiate between healthy mice and those with mesothelioma. This test has the potential to improve mesothelioma diagnosis and increase survival rates.
New Study Finds Link between Mesothelioma and Genetic Mutation
A study conducted at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston has identified a genetic mutation that may inc
rease the risk of developing mesothelioma. The mutation affects the BAP1 gene, which plays a role in repairing damaged DNA. The study found that people with the mutation were more likely to develop mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos. This discovery may help identify people who are at higher risk for mesothelioma and develop targeted prevention strategies.
Mesothelioma News 2018 Boston Globe: Table
| Date | Headline | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| January 15, 2018 | New Clinical Trial Shows Promise for Mesothelioma Patients | Researchers at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston have conducted a clinical trial of a new immunotherapy drug for mesothelioma. The drug, called pembrolizumab, was tested in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced mesothelioma. The trial showed that the drug combination was well-tolerated and had a response rate of 76%, meaning that the tumors shrunk or remained stable in the majority of patients. |
| March 12, 2018 | Boston Company Settles Mesothelioma Lawsuits for $120 Million | A Boston-based company, W.R. Grace & Co., has settled a series of lawsuits related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The lawsuits allege that the company knew about the dangers of asbestos but failed to warn its employees or users of its products. The settlement will provide compensation to hundreds of mesothelioma victims and their families. |
| June 5, 2018 | Mesothelioma Advocacy Group Hosts Annual Symposium in Boston | The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) held its annual symposium in Boston in 2018. The symposium brought together researchers, clinicians, patients, and advocates to discuss the latest developments in mesothelioma research and treatment. The topics covered included immunotherapy, molecular profiling, and clinical trials. |
| August 18, 2018 | Massachusetts General Hospital Launches New Mesothelioma Program | Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston has launched a new program dedicated to mesothelioma treatment and research. The program offers comprehensive care to patients with mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services. Additionally, the program conducts research to develop new treatments and improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients. |
| October 3, 2018 | Boston Law Firm Wins $7.5 Million Verdict in Mesothelioma Case | A Boston-based law firm, Thornton Law Firm, LLP, won a $7.5 million verdict in a mesothelioma case in 2018. The case involved a man who worked as a carpenter and was exposed to asbestos from various construction materials. The verdict was based on the company’s failure to provide adequate warnings about the risks of asbestos exposure. |
| December 1, 2018 | Non-Invasive Test Shows Promise for Early Detection of Mesothelioma | Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a non-invasive test for mesothelioma that could detect the disease in its early stages. The test uses a nanotechnology-based sensor to detect biomarkers of mesothelioma in urine or plasma samples. The researchers tested the sensor in mice and found that it could differentiate between healthy mice and those with mesothelioma. |
| December 31, 2018 | New Study Finds Link between Mesothelioma and Genetic Mutation | A study conducted at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston has identified a genetic mutation that may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. The mutation affects the BAP1 gene, which plays a role in repairing damaged DNA. The study found that people with the mutation were more likely to develop mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that covers many organs in the body.
What causes mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the late 1970s.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Peritoneal mesothelioma may cause abdominal pain, swelling, and digestive problems. Pericardial mesothelioma can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of many other conditions. If mesothelioma is suspected, doctors may perform imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans to look for abnormalities in the affected area. Biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue is taken for laboratory analysis, is the definitive way to diagnose mesothelioma.
What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. The best course of treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health.
What is mesothelioma law and compensation?
Mesothelioma law and compensation refer to the legal process of seeking compensation from companies that exposed people to asbestos and caused them to develop mesothelioma. Mesothelioma lawsuits can result in compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
What resources are available for mesothelioma advocacy and support?
Advocacy organizations, support groups, and other resources are available for people affected by mesothelioma. These resources can provide information about mesothelioma, connect you with other people affected by the disease, and offer emotional support.
What is pembrolizumab, and how does it work?
Pembrolizumab is a type of immunotherapy drug that works by blocking a protein called PD-1 on the surface of cancer cells. This allows the immune system to recognize and attack the cancer cells more effectively.
What is mesothelioma molecular profiling?
Mesothelioma molecular profiling is a type of testing that examines the genes and proteins in a person’s mesothelioma cells to identify specific characteristics of the disease. This information can be used to determine the best course of treatment and predict how the disease may progress.
What are the potential side effects of mesothelioma treatment?
The side effects of mesothelioma treatment can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the specific treatments used. Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, and hair loss. Surgery and radiation therapy may cause pain, fatigue, and other complications.
Is mesothelioma hereditary?
Although mesothelioma is not usually considered a hereditary disease, some studies have suggested that certain genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos.
Can mesothelioma be prevented?
The primary way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. This may require taking precautions such as wearing protective gear, using
