Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a natural mineral that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing until the 1970s. Despite being a rare cancer, mesothelioma cases are on the rise in the United States, with over 3,000 new diagnoses each year. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is one of the leading institutions in the fight against mesothelioma, providing advanced treatment options for patients with this devastating disease.
What is Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey?
Founded in 1991, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the state of New Jersey. The institute is dedicated to conducting cutting-edge research, providing the highest quality patient care, and training the next generation of cancer researchers and clinicians. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is part of Rutgers University, the state university of New Jersey.
The History of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey
The roots of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey date back to the late 1970s, when the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) established a Cancer Center. In 1991, UMDNJ and Rutgers University merged, and the Cancer Center became part of Rutgers. In 1997, the National Cancer Institute designated the Cancer Center as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, recognizing its excellence in research, patient care, and education. Today, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is a leader in cancer research and patient care, with a team of world-class researchers and clinicians.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs, chest cavity, abdomen, and other organs. The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a natural mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1970s. Mesothelioma can take decades to develop after asbestos exposure, and symptoms often do not appear until the cancer is in advanced stages.
The Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on which part of the body is affected, but can include:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Shortness of breath | Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can’t catch your breath |
| Chest pain | Pain in the chest or upper back |
| Cough | A persistent cough that doesn’t go away |
| Fatigue | Feeling tired or weak |
| Fever | A low-grade fever that doesn’t go away |
The Diagnosis and Treatment of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to diagnose, as the symptoms can mimic those of other, less serious conditions. If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, as well as a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Mesothelioma
Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is a leader in the treatment of mesothelioma, providing comprehensive care for patients with this rare and aggressive cancer. The institute has a team of experienced clinicians who specialize in mesothelioma treatment, as well as state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for diagnosis and treatment.
The Mesothelioma Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey
The Mesothelioma Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is a multidisciplinary program that brings together experts from different fields to provide the best possible care for patients with mesothelioma. The program includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, and other specialists who work together to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
Treatment options for Mesothelioma at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey
Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey offers a range of treatment options for mesothelioma, including:
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| Surgery | Surgical options for mesothelioma may include pleurectomy and decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy. These procedures aim to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible. |
| Radiation therapy | High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery, or as a primary treatment option. |
| Chemotherapy | Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used along with surgery or radiation therapy, or as a primary treatment option. |
FAQs about Mesothelioma
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors include age (most cases are diagnosed in people over age 55), gender (men are more likely to develop mesothelioma than women), and a family history of mesothelioma or other cancers.
Is mesothelioma curable?
At this time, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, many patients are able to manage their symptoms and live longer than they would otherwise.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on which part of the body is affected, but may include shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, fatigue, and fever.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, as well as a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
Is mesothelioma contagious?
No, mesothelioma is not contagious.
Is mesothelioma a form of lung cancer?
No, mesothelioma is not a form of lung cancer. While both are cancers of the respiratory system, mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, while lung cancer affects the lung tissue itself.
Are there any new treatments for mesothelioma?
Researchers at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and other institutions are constantly working to develop new treatments for mesothelioma. Clinical trials of new therapies are ongoing.
How does asbestos exposure cause mesothelioma?
Asbestos fibers are inhaled into the lungs and become lodged in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to the development of cancer.
How can I reduce my risk of mesothelioma?
The best way to reduce your risk of mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear protective gear.
Can mesothelioma be prevented?
The only way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you live or work in a building that contains asbestos, it is important to have it removed by a licensed professional.
What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the age and overall health of the patient, and the effectiveness of the chosen treatment. While mesothelioma is a serious disease, many patients are able to manage their symptoms and live longer than they would otherwise.
What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek care from a team of experienced mesothelioma specialists. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is one of the leading institutions in the treatment of mesothelioma, providing advanced care and treatment options for patients with this rare and deadly cancer.
How can I learn more about mesothelioma?
If you would like to learn more about mesothelioma, visit the website of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to funding research and providing support for mesothelioma patients and their families.
Conclusion: Join the Fight Against Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that affects thousands of people each year. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is committed to fighting mesothelioma through cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art treatments, and compassionate care for patients and their families. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, do not lose hope. There are treatment options available, and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey is here to help.
Join the fight against mesothelioma by supporting the work of institutions like Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Together, we can find a cure for this devastating disease.
Closing: Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned in this article.
