MesotheliomaInfo2day

For those who have a history of occupational exposure of asbestos, some may feel that they are in the clear from developing mesothelioma, a rare cancer that is directly linked to asbestos. Even for those who have been symptom-free for decades after their last exposure to asbestos, it has been found that mesothelioma could lay dormant for upwards of 40 years.

The extent of the dangers of asbestos were unknown by employers and employees for many years. It wasn’t until the early 1970s that the link between asbestos and mesothelioma first began to coincide with exposure. Since then, there have been countless lawsuits that aim to collect billions of dollars in restitution for those who have developed mesothelioma cancers.

Because the extend of illness might not be known until several decades after the worker last came into contact with asbestos-laden worksites, it is of the benefit to the worker to take precautions for their own health’s sake. If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos, or who might have been exposed to asbestos materials, a visit with a physician should be made to assess the risk of developing mesothelioma in the future.

With any cancer-related illness, the first and best treatment for survival is early detection. The earlier the disease is found in the patient, the more time the sufferer has to undergo therapies that can extend their life and can better their overall quality of living.

One new drug, Alitma, produced by drug giant Eli Lily, has been approved for the U.S. market. This drug has given new hope for those maintaining their lives after mesothelioma cancer has been diagnosed. Generally, the patient who learns they have mesothelioma cancers average between 6 and 12 months of life. Alitma, and early diagnosis, offer hope for longer survivability.