Friday, October 31, 2008

Asbestos Exposure and Lung Cancer

In the UK, asbestos accounts for 2-3% of male lung cancer deaths. There is a complementary effect between tobacco smoking and asbestos in the formation of lung cancer. Asbestos can also cause cancer of the pleura, called mesothelioma (which is different from lung cancer).

People who work with asbestos have a higher risk of getting lung cancer. People exposed to industrial substances or building materials such as asbestos, nickel, chromium compounds, arsenic, polycyclic hydrocarbons and chloromethyl ether also have a higher risk of developing lung cancer. It is also important to try to avoid second-hand tobacco smoke, radon, and pollution, which can increase a person's risk of getting lung cancer.

People who have been exposed to asbestos will only diagnosed with lung cancer twenty to thirty years down the road. If you suspect that you may be exposed to the hazards listed above, look out for symptoms that are associated with lung cancer.

dyspnea (shortness of breath)
hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
chronic coughing or change in regular coughing pattern
wheezing
chest pain or pain in the abdomen
cachexia (weight loss)
fatigue and loss of appetite
sphonia (hoarse voice)
clubbing of the fingernails (uncommon)
dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
repeated chest infections
asthma
fluid around the lung
swelling in the neck or face
lethargic

Some lung cancers do not cause any noticeable symptoms until they are quite advanced and have spread to other parts of the body. By the time people have symptoms, lung cancer is generally at stage four, having already spread to another major organ.

Additional symptoms that may also occur with lung cancer includes:

Swallowing difficulty
Nail problems
Joint pain
Facial paralysis
Eyelid drooping
Bone pain or tenderness.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steff_X

Alternative Treatments For Lung Cancer

If your doctor has told you that your lung cancer can't be cured, you may be tempted to turn to complementary and alternative medicine for answers. But this doesn't mean you have to choose between conventional treatments and alternative treatments. Rather than forgoing mainstream cancer treatments, using complementary and alternative treatments along with care from your doctor may be a reasonable option.

Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks of complementary and alternative treatments. The American College of Chest Physicians reviewed available complementary and alternative treatments and found some therapies may be helpful for people with lung cancer, including acupuncture, hypnosis, massage, meditation and yoga

The alternative treatments above are basically palliative treatments aimed to lessen the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and not curing the cancer. Patients can then enjoy quality time and for longer period too.

However, some alternative treatments such as Vitamin C Intravenous Infusion and Baking Soda water have even reversed the cancer and convert cancer cells back to healthy ones. Combined with mostly vegan cancer-friendly diet, the recovery cases have doctors scratching their heads.

Basically alternative treatment works by reducing toxin in the body, strengthen the immune system, control the excessive acidity bodily environment that encourage tumor growth and infuse the blood with more oxygen that kill cancer cells. In other words, these treatments are strategically targeted yet they are generally gentle and non-invasive as opposed to conventional treatment. Even patients with weak health can undergo these treatments.

Some newer alternative cancer treatments are giving lung cancer patients new hope, but there are never any guarantees treating advanced lung cancer because there are so many things that can go wrong. The Brandt Grape Cure is always recommended as a replacement for the "cancer diet" of any other alternative cancer treatment. This diet involve eating only grapes to flood the body with the goodness of antioxidant.

Though going to an alternative treatment route is perceived to be healthier, cancer experts said they tend not to recommend the procedures. This is mainly because alternative treatments are not FDA-approved and have no clear proof of success. There aren't stats on alternative treatments because there are no sponsors and there are strict guidelines that must be followed in order to publish a statistic.

Health insurance does not cover the cost of alternative treatment, but the good news is alternative treatments need not cost a lot of money. Since this is the aspect that the patient have control over in his or her cancer battle, it is worth a try.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steff_X

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Texas Mesothelioma Lawyers

Texas mesothelioma lawyers are very compassionate and can understand the fear and confusion that a person will face that is diagnosed with mesothelioma or other forms of cancer. Texas mesothelioma lawyers can recognize what this cancer can bring into your family. The drain emotionally and financially on both you and your family is an unwanted process but Texas mesothelioma lawyers can work with you and your family to try and make something good come out of a horrible situation.

The Texas mesothelioma lawyers and law firms will work with you and your family to claim well deserved compensation from where a victim might have been exposed to asbestos. These lawsuits have been known to win millions of dollars for victims and their families. If you happen to be diagnosed with mesothelioma you have every right to file a lawsuit in court. With the rising cases of mesothelioma throughout the country lawyers have become very proficient at getting the maximum compensation out of companies that have exposed their employees to asbestos. Today there are millions of lawyers that specialize in mesothelioma & asbestos lawsuits, many of which are in Texas.

Finding a mesothelioma lawyer in Texas or anywhere for that matter can be a long drawn out process. You need to select a lawyer with whom you get a good vibe from. Make sure to meet with several before you decide on your Texas mesothelioma lawyer. You can start your search with law directories, yellow pages, or the internet.

One great thing about Texas mesothelioma lawyers is that Texas provides speedy trial for mesothelioma victims which ensure the chances that victims will live to enjoy their compensations.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones is the most important thing you can do in life. If your experiencing symptoms related to tragic cancer or if you know you have worked in an environment that might have contained asbestos it is absolutely critical to contact a mesothelioma lawyer today.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Schwinler

Your Lung Cancer Symptoms in a Nutshell

In the early stages of lung cancer, often, you will have no symptoms. It is as the cancer grows that the symptoms begin to appear. Here's what you should be looking for when you suspect that you have lung cancer symptoms.

Some of these symptoms may include a cough that gets worse or doesn't seem to want to go away, breathing problems (including shortness of breath or wheezing), a constant chest pain... especially when you cough, at times you may be coughing up blood.

This is accompanied with a hoarse voice, frequent chest infections (such as pneumonia), or an infection that doesn't go away, feeling fatigued all of the time (feeling very tired all the time), unexplained weight loss, and a loss of appetite.

Be aware that other health problems may also cause some of these same symptoms. Whatever the case, you need to immediately get checked by your doctor.

These conditions are also symptomatic of many other lung problems, so a person who has any of these symptoms should definitely pursue the cause until one is sure of the problem. When a person goes for an exam, the doctor may ask many questions about the person's medical history, including questions about the patient's exposure to hazardous substances.

More often than not, a person having symptoms of lung cancer will be given physical exam. If the patient has a cough that produces a sputum (mucus), the mucus itself might be examined for cancer cells. The doctor will order a chest X-ray or specialized X-ray such as the CT scan, which helps to locate any abnormal spots in the lungs. The doctor may insert a small tube called a bronchoscope through the nose or mouth and down the throat, to look inside the airways and lungs and take a sample, or biopsy, of the tumor. This is just one of several ways in which a doctor may take a biopsy sample.

However, more and more doctors are using a form of CT scan in smokers to spot small lung cancers, which are more likely to be cured as compared to a large large tumor. The technique, called helical low-dose CT scan, is much more sensitive than a regular X-ray and can detect tumors when they are very small, which would otherwise not been on a regular x-ray.



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Friday, October 17, 2008

Lung Cancer - A Closer Look!

Understandingly, lung cancer starts in the cells of the lungs. It is a disease of uncontrolled cell growth in the tissues of the lung.

Most people know that the lungs are in the chest, one on each side of the heart. The right lung has three main parts, called lobes. The left lung is a bit smaller and has two lobes. The lungs are cushioned and protected by a thin covering called the pleura. The pleura has two layers of tissue: one layer covers the lungs and the other lines the inside wall of the chest. There is a small amount of fluid (pleural fluid) between the two layers of the pleura. So this basically describes what lungs are... but what are they for?

You use your lungs when you breathe. The air you take in through your nose or mouth flows down the trachea (windpipe). The trachea divides into two tubes called the left and right bronchi, which carry air to each lung. Once inside the lung, the bronchi divide into smaller and smaller tubes called bronchioles. Each bronchiole ends in a cluster of tiny air sacs called alveoli. The alveoli take oxygen from the air you breathe in and pass it into the blood for circulation to all parts of your body. The alveoli also remove carbon dioxide from the blood, which is pushed out of the lungs when you exhale. So now you understand the main purpose of your lungs... and now to a closer look at lung cancer.

What most people don't know is that there are two types of lung cancer. The most common type is the non-small cell , also known as (NSCLC). This cancer grows more slowly than the small cell type. While the small-cell grows quickly and often spreads to distant parts of the body.

There is also a rare type of cancer called pleural mesothelioma which is often mistakenly called a lung cancer. But pleural mesothelioma starts in the lining of the lung and is very different from cancer that starts in the lung.

Now for the three types of non-small cancers, which are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. These account for about 80% of lung cancers, while small-cell (also called oat) accounts for about 20%. The vast majority of all lung cancers are of the carcinoma type.

It's important to understand these three types of cancers because treatment varies accordingly. Non-small cell lung carcinoma for example, is sometimes treated with surgery, while small cell lung carcinoma, usually responds better to chemotherapy and radiation.



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The Three Variations of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a devastating form of cancer caused by long term exposure to asbestos. While workers of various industries are at the greatest risk of developing the disease due to the time they spend near asbestos filled products and buildings, the disease can affect anyone at anytime in their life.

Mesothelioma develops in the membrane, known as the mesothelium, that covers most of the body's vital organs. There are three different forms of the cancer, named for the various organs that they directly affect:

- Pleural mesothelioma
- Pericardial mesothelioma
- Peritoneal mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma
This type of the deadly disease affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. As the cancer develops, fluids may build up between the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, causing pain and shortness of breath.

The most common form of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers. Over time these fibers enter the body's tissue, spreading the disease throughout the body's membranes. Unfortunately, like many other forms of cancer, mesothelioma is not easily diagnosed until 10 to 50 years of the initial exposure.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma
This form of mesothelioma affects the abdominal area and is developed in the same manner as the pleural version of the disease. Again, the symptoms of this form of cancer are not usually detected until several decades after the initial exposure. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, fever, and anemia.

Pericardial Mesothelioma
Although this form of cancer is rare, it shares many characteristics with the pleural and peritoneal forms of the disease. Pericardial mesothelioma affects the area of the heart and is the result of asbestos exposure. Symptoms may include chest pain, constant cough, shortness of breath, and even palpitations.

A Lawyer Can Help
If you have developed mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos, the person or company responsible for the dangerous source of asbestos may be held legally responsible for your pain and suffering. Contact an attorney immediately to learn more about your legal options.

During your first meeting with your attorney be sure to bring:

- Your medical records
- Possible areas of exposure
- Work history
- Social security records



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devine

Three Symptoms to Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the biggest side effect of smoking cigarettes. Since it's deadly it's important to recognize all the early signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

The first symptom is constant coughing. The lining of the air passages contain sensitive nerves. There purpose is to protect the airways from any foreign substance like dirt, dust, blood or a tumor. By stimulating the cough reflex, these nerves help the body get rid of particles, therefore keeping the airways clean. If a tumor develops near the airways passages, coughing will be the primary symptom. Coughing is usually the primarily symptom in 20-80 percent of cancer cases.

The second symptom is wheezing. This is the sound that is produced as air tries to pass through an airway that is partially blocked. Tumors usually produce localized wheezing that's heard on the side of the chest where the tumor is located.

The third symptom is coughing up blood. This is by far the most severe of the three. If the surface of the tumor bleeds, you will cough up blood-tinged mucous. This final symptom should be taken very seriously. You need to see a doctor as soon as possible if this ever happens to you.

After you have been diagnosed with having lung cancer, the next concern is how quickly it my spread. This called the doubling speed and is important in determining which stage you're in. This will determine how much time you have to receive treatment. This is especially important in small cell lung cancer, since it tends to spread more rapidly. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms visit your doctor right away. He'll be able to give you all the information on the best treatment options to fit your individual needs.



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Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Kent Cigarettes Filters Used Deadly Crocidolite Asbestos

Incredible as it may seem - because the dangers of asbestos were already beginning to be known - back in the 50s the P. Lorillard Company was using deadly crocidolite fibers in its Kent cigarette filters. In a review guide on eBay, an asbestos-identifying private consultant writes about the history of the asbestos-laden "micronite" filter used on Kent cigarettes between 1952 and 1956. And the U.S. government website notes that anyone who smoked a pack a day of Kent cigarettes between 1952 and 1956 may have been exposed to as much as 131 million crocidolite structures in a single year.

If you know anyone who was a smoker during this period, you may want to advise them of the danger to which they may have been exposed. Suggest they consult a physician who is an expert at understanding the early signs of asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Early detection can help with treatment and possibly improve quality of life. See below to find information about doctors who understand the complexities of diagnosing and treating mesothelioma.

Perhaps even more interesting was the claim that Kent cigarettes made for the positive health benefits the filter supposedly conferred on smokers. When a large number of workers from the Kent factories making the filters began coming down with those respiratory diseases, the alarm was raised. In 1995 scientists located unopened packages of Kent filter cigarettes date stamped from 1952. They put them through testing with artificial smoking machines that could measure the contents of the smoke. Extensive testing with first puffs and puffs after cigarettes had been put out and relit revealed that crocidolite fibers were present in the filters. They showed that many of the fibers were long enough to be classed as more likely to be carcinogenic and that substantial numbers of those longer fibers were carried directly into the smokers' mouth and lungs.

As time has passed and more and more people are growing sick 30, 40, and 50 years later because of negligent behaviors by corporate entities long ago, our society has begun to realize that advertising can be manipulated to say anything that serves to boost sales, regardless of whether it's based on facts. This is a good thing for public health--though too late for many. We are dedicated to helping assist those who may be suffering from mesothelioma from any cause.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or feel you've been exposed to asbestos or other toxic substances on the job, first find the right medical help. Then, understand your legal rights...http://www.mesotheliomaadvice.org/legal/legal-process.asp If you have questions or need help regarding a potential mesothelioma or asbestos-exposure lawsuit, you can visit our site (link below), call us 800.443.6353, or email us at help@mesotheliomaadvice.org. We have years of experience helping people just like you and your family face this difficult time in your life.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Hendler

Lung Diseases Up Among 9-11 Rescue Workers

People living and working in New York on that fateful day when the Twin Towers came down are becoming ill in growing numbers. World Trade first responders and others are developing chronic coughs, lung diseases and now other cancers caused by breathing the toxic mix of asbestos, dioxine, benezine, and other carcinogens released at and around the site.

Eventually some are likely to develop mesothelioma-a disease specifically related to exposure to asbestos. And some who were there will also begin to develop potentially lethal blood clots. Patients with cancer of all types tend to have a significantly higher risk of blood clotting then the general population. Because of its severity as a disease, scientists decided to try to find out whether patients with mesothelioma also follow that trend.

In a small study in the state of New Mexico the rate of dangerous (thromboembolism) among mesothelioma patients was significantly higher-close to double the rate-among other cancer patients. This is yet another way this disease can kill or disable its victims. If you know someone who may be at risk for mesothelioma, be sure to let them know they should talk to their doctor about the advisability of taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

There are similarities between the victims of the Towers tragedy and those who've developed mesothelioma as a result of manufacturers who failed to provide adequate warnings and protective clothing and equipment for people working around asbestos. The difference is there will be a far larger public outcry when the consequences to rescue workers at the 9/11 disaster become common knowledge. When you've been the victim of such failures in the private sector, you have to look harder to find a voice on your behalf.

Be sure to find a doctor who understands the need to keep an open mind about diagnosing and treating mesothelioma. And if you've been diagnosed, please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions about your right to file a lawsuit for compensation or other damages for being exposed to asbestos at work. Mesothelioma is a killer disease and you and your family deserve to understand your legal rights.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or feel you've been exposed to asbestos or other toxic substances on the job, first find the right medical help. Then, understand your legal rights... http://www.mesotheliomaadvice.org/legal/legal-process.asp - If you have questions or need help regarding a potential mesothelioma or asbestos-exposure lawsuit, you can visit our site (link below), call us 800.443.6353, or email us at help@mesotheliomaadvice.org/ We have years of experience helping people just like you and your family face this difficult time in your life.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Hendler

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Top 5 Signs of Lung Cancer to Long-Term Smokers

Usually in the early of lung cancer, there are no special symptoms. Only when lung cancer is developed to a certain stage, there will be some symptoms, including cough, blood in sputum, fever, chest pain, chest tightness and some other respiratory symptoms. Lung cancer may easily be overlooked or be treated as pneumonia, so to cause the delay condition. People above 40 years old especially have a long history of smoking or passive smoking, must have a regular physical examination annually. People should also be vigilant immediately for medical treatment when the following performance appears, which is helpful to find lung cancer in time.

1. Chronic Cough

Tumour stimulates the trachea, will often lead to irritating cough. This cough has nothing to do with the season, time or medication. This is the most common symptoms of lung cancer, and about 2/3 of the patients have this symptom. People must be prudent when there is a cough of unknown causes. Some people who has a long-term chronic cough must go to see a doctor when he feels that the cough situation has changed.

2. Blood In Sputum

Tumour causes cell necrosis and broken of capillaries, a small amount of bleeding mixed with sputum and so this Intermittent or persistent symptom appears. About 50% of the patients with lung cancer have this symptom.

3. Chest Pain

About 30%-40% of lung cancer patients will appear chest pain, generally not keen intermittent chest pain, mainly shown as stuffy pain or vague pain with uncertain location, may continue from several minutes to several hours.

4. Repeated Fever

Bronchial cavity was blocked by tumor, poor drainage may lead to fever. The body temperature is generally under 38 degrees. Treat early with antibiotic, the body temperature can return to normal, but easy to relapse.

5. Chest Tightness And Shortness Of Breath

Tumor will affect the normal lung function, and will lead to chest tightness and shortness of breath when people are tired, which is the most obvious in central lung cancer.



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How to Choose a Mesothelioma Lawyer?

Mesothelioma is an occupationsl disease. Exposure to asbestos at the workplace is the single most important risk factor for developing mesothelioma. In the era when safety measures were often deficient, workers were constantly exposed to asbestos fibers and many of them developed the disease. Mesothelioma develops some 40-60 years after exposure and is thus common in the senior citizens who have worked in places known to have asbestos in the ambient environment. Compensations and lawsuits are common and are justified where there were gross violations in safety measures. The manufacturers and even distributors knew for decades that asbestos was hazardous, but they did not warn people of those hazards. As a result, a patient has the right of recovery against those manufacturers who can help pay the costs of treatment and provide compensation for the resultant pain and suffering.

No amount of monetary benefits can compensate the suffering but at least the compensation can take care of the medical expenses involved. Any person affected directly or indirectly is eligible for compensation.

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit is a long and tedious process. As soon as a diagnosis has been made, it is critical to get hold of a qualified mesothelioma attorney to file claims. It is better to file a suit with the help of attorneys who are experienced in these issues. They have done the hard legwork and groundwork and as such can help speedier processing of the claims. All said and done choosing a mesothelioma attorney is a personal decision and best left to the patient and his or her relatives.

The following questions can help make a good decision regarding mesothelioma lawyers and firms.

1. How long has the firm been handling these type of cases?
2. How many cases are being handled currently?
3. How many cases have been handles successfully in the recent past?
4. Will a law firm work on your case or refer it to another law firm? If referred what are the credentials of the referred law firm?
5. How many cases have been taken to trial and what have been the nature of the verdicts?
6. In the event of an appeal are there qualified lawyers in the firm who handle appellate and related legal issues?
7. What is the track record for the firm in handling appealed cases successfully?

The Martindale-Hubbell Legal network is a good point to begin search for mesothelioma lawyers and firms. A simple search on a search engine will give further details. The Oklahoma Bar Association has put out excellent guidelines regarding choosing an attorney. They state that "Selecting a lawyer is a personal matter. You must judge which particular attorney will be best for you. Before making a decision, however, you may want to contact several lawyers or law firms to gather some comparative information."

It is extremely important to trust the lawyer or firm one hires. No lawyer can be expected to win every case, and sometimes the best legal advice may not be exactly what you want to hear."



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Lung Cancer Through the Quad Transfer

Lung cancer, not only in the primary site continue to grow and spread, but also often through the lymphatic and Xuelu transferred to the local lymph nodes and other body organs. The incidence of lung cancer more often concealed, early often no obvious symptoms, easily overlooked, and even some long-distance transfer of patients has occurred, is still not confirmed, the understanding of the characteristics of the transfer of lung cancer, lung cancer diagnosis and treatment will also be Helpful.

Direct spread

Lung cancer from bronchial occurred along the infiltration of bronchial wall, directly to the proliferation of proximal or distal end, to be invaded trachea eminence plane, or air to the lungs through bronchial wall infiltration growth in real terms, and further up to mediastinal pleura . The latter can lead to the cultivation of the two pleural proliferation, pleural thickening, as if the corpus callosum. Could be worse transgression and chest wall and diaphragmatic, or to the esophagus and the pericardium.

Lymphatic metastasis

Lung cancer at an early stage is likely to occur lymphatic metastasis. General small cell carcinoma of the transfer earlier than squamous cell carcinoma and. First found in lymphatic metastasis of the lung lymph nodes, hilar lymph nodes, trachea and bronchi adjacent lymph nodes. This may be to mediastinal lymph nodes (which is the guideline for long-distance transfer) autopsy cases of lung cancer about half that peritoneal metastasis.

Xuelu transfer

Xuelu transfer of common lung cancer, often caused systemic result of extensive transfer of death, the mortality rate was 92%. Especially those that are not differentiated small cell lung cancer such as cancer, the cancer cells may occur early Xuelu transfer, and then later adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Lung cancer transferred to remote organs, not from lung cancer is often the primary site Xuelu transfer, but through the mediastinum into the metastasis venous circulation Yan returned to the lungs. Therefore, in general there is no transfer of early lung cancer, lung metastasis is not uncommon. According to the autopsy materials and lung cancer of the lung metastases found only 10 percent of the cases, but to make sure it is transferred from the Xuelu mediastinal lymph nodes from, or from the more common internal organs to shift from the Xuelu, it is difficult.

Cultivation of transfer

Body cavity of the organ tumors spread to the organ surface, the tumor cells can be exfoliated and, like sowing, planting in the body cavity and body cavity of the organ on the surface, forming the majority of the transfer. This method known as the transfer of duty of the transfer or sowing, more than occurred in the abdominal or thoracic organ cancer. Organs of cancer, such as the invasion of gastric cancer and gastric damage serosa, Ke Zhongzhi to the omentum, peritoneal, abdominal organs in the face of even the surface of ovarian, etc.. Lung cancer is often in the chest with a wide range of cultivation of the transfer. Serous cavity of the cultivation of each shift with serous bloody fluid, it is because subserosal lymphatic or vascular thrombosis was resistance, resistance to cancer or serous stimulus to the permeability of capillary A result of increased leakage increased, and because blood vessels were small cell carcinoma of the destruction it caused bleeding. Suction fluid for cytology see often available on the cancer cells. It is worth noting that surgery could also result in cultivation.



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Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Screening Tests For Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a very rare form of cancer that affects the pleural membranes (coverings of the lungs), the peritoneal membranes (coverings of the abdominal organs) or the pericardium (covering of the heart). Mesothelioma is generally seen in people exposed to asbestos. The tumor often takes years to develop and screening people exposed to asbestos remains the only option for early intervention against this disease. People who have held jobs in the construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing industry need to be screened routinely. The following screening tests can be useful to diagnose mesothelioma.

Imaging:

Imaging tests like a simple chest X-Ray, CT Scans, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are often very useful and they may show thick, nodular masses on the pleural surface.

Needle Biopsies:

Under a local anaesthetic, the doctor will insert a large, hollow needle into the chest cavity. The needle is rotated and withdrawn to collect a sample of the tissue in the process. The sample is then examined in the laboratory for malignant cells. The needle biopsy is only about 40% accurate.

Open Biopsy:

This is one of the most accurate methods to diagnose mesothelioma. A larger tissue sample is often obtained with an open biopsy. However the procedure is performed under general anaesthetic.

Cytology:

Cytology of the pleural fluid has little value in diagnosing mesothelioma and is not routinely performed. Almost 85% of the times cytology is negative or inconclusive despite the presence of mesothelioma. Cytology can be performed in conjunction with a biopsy.

Even with the best screening techniques available today, mesothelioma escapes detection. Early screening and routine screening are crucial in people exposed to asbestos in order to prevent serious consequences. Whilst there are no definite cures yet, the speed at which medicine is making progress a cure for mesothelioma should definitely be around the corner. Till then early detection remains the best possible weapon against this disease. Victims of mesothelioma should take appropriate action against their former employers and should get in touch with lawyers who have experience handling these issues.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rajgopal_Venkataraman

Mesothelioma and Litigation - How to Get Cash For Asbestos Lung Cancer Palliative Care

Mesothelioma is a particularly nasty form of lung cancer, and mesothelioma litigation is increasingly being used as a means of getting cash for asbestos lung cancer palliative care. Without it, many families would not be able to afford professional care for their loved ones, and would have to tend for them themselves at the worst possible time for them and for the patient.

Incidences of mesothelioma asbestos lung cancer are steadily increasing, which indicates just how insidious this disease is. Caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers, the symptoms can take upwards of 40 years after exposure to appear, and may people who suffer do not even remember being exposed to the substance. It does not take much exposure, and many cannot understand the diagnosis when it is available because they cannot remember ever being exposed to asbestos.

There are no known 100% effective conventional medical treatments for mesothelioma, and the prognosis is generally bad. However, there are several things that can be done to alleviate pain and make the patient's life more comfortable. While drugs can help, hospice care is an option that takes pressure of the family and provides a comfortable environment for the patient. However, these alternatives can be expensive and if responsibility can be placed on an employer for the exposure that ultimately led to the disease, then compensation can pay for the palliative care.

This is not seeking charity, but rather making those responsible pay for the treatment. A high level of compensation will be needed to pay for the treatment and care needed, and in order to achieve this result you will require the services of a good mesothelioma attorney. Any lawyer will not do due to the specialized knowledge needed to persuade judges and juries that there very few causes of asbestos lung cancer other than exposure to the fibrous silicates that make up asbestos.

The compensation awarded can be very large, although smokers will receive less since their habit can be construed as contributing to the disease. Mesothelioma is not just another word for asbestos cancer, but is in fact a cancer of the mesothelium, a membrane that lines many body cavities, including the thoracic, or chest cavity. The lining of the lungs is called the pleura, so mesothelioma refers to any form of lung cancer involving that membrane. In fact 80% of mesothelioma cases are caused by smoking.

It is therefore very difficult for smokers to blame asbestos exposure for mesothelioma unless they have been working with asbestos. However, a good asbestos attorney should be able to secure a reasonable level of compensation, even for a smoker. It will be a fight though, since the asbestos companies and employers that required employees to work with the substance are aware of the high levels of compensation being awarded, and now actively fight such cases.

When you consult a law firm with a view to instructing them to fight your mesothelioma case, you should insist on talking with the attorney that will be handling your case. You can then discuss your strategy, and you can make sure that your attorney has had previous success with such cases. You don't want to retain a loser!

Ask questions, and determine the success rate of your prospective attorney in such cases. He or she must also appreciate your condition and understand how you feel, so that they can fight your case properly. Nothing can beat experience in a mesothelioma asbestos cancer lawsuit, so make sure that you get the best you can afford. Better still: tell them their fee depends upon them winning!



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Jones

Mesothelioma - Your Questions Answered

Q. What is Mesothelioma?

A. Mesothelioma is a rare but potentially fatal cancer that affects a layer of the body called as mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity. There are three forms of mesothelioma:

1. Pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the coverings of the lungs.
2. Peritoneal mesothelioms. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the abdominal organs.
3. Pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the heart.

Pleural is the most common followed by peritoneal and lastly pericardial.

Q. What are the causes of mesothelioma?

A. Asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fine fiber material that is resistant to heat. These fibers when inhaled get into the air passages and then reach the pleural cells. The asbestos injures the pleural cells and this injury leads to either benign or malignant transformation. Asbestos is found in many types of industrial supplies and equipments. Asbestos exposure does not lead to mesothelioma immediately. Often it takes decades before the person manifests the symptoms of the disease. Smoking does not lead to mesothelioma though the risk is more for a smoker exposed to asbestos.

Q. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

A. Often mistaken for pneumonia, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. The most common symptoms include:

Persistent cough.
Shortness of breath.
Chest pains.
Swelling up of face and neck.
Coughing up blood.
Nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite.

Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. However keep in mind the risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and speaking to a doctor will help in screening and early detection of the disease.

Q. What treatment options are available for mesothelioma?

A. Mesothelioma is often a very difficult disease to diagnose and treat. The various treatment options include:

Surgery in early stages to reduce tumor burden.
Chemotherapy with agents like Cisplatin.
Radiotherapy.
Gene therapy.
Immunotherapy.
Photodynamic therapy.



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Saturday, October 4, 2008

The Facts About Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma that accounts for approximately 20% of all mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue lining the abdomen which is called the peritoneum hence the name of this form of the cancer. The peritoneum protects the contents of the abdomen and is therefore very important.

Currently, only one cause of peritoneal mesothelioma is known and this is exposure to asbestos dust and fibres. Only a couple of months of exposure to asbestos without sufficient protection can lead to peritoneal mesothelioma thirty to fifty years later. Those suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma are mostly elderly men who worked amongst asbestos decades ago when workers were not protected from asbestos dust. Many of these men are currently lodging multi-million dollar lawsuits against the companies who exposed them to asbestos. Asbestos fibres can get into the peritoneum in two different ways. The most common way they reach the peritoneum is by them getting trapped in the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (inside the lungs) by mucus and end up being swallowed. From here they can pass through the intestine wall into the peritoneum. The second way in which asbestos fibres can reach the peritoneum is by them lodging inside the lungs. They then move into the lymphatic system and get transported to the peritoneum. Constant exposure to asbestos leads to a great number of fibres being built up in the peritoneum.


The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are generally only felt when the cancer has developed greatly. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pains and loss of appetite. As the cancer matures, the symptoms will become more pronounced and severe. To learn more about the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma.

There are several treatments for peritoneal mesothelioma although all of them have a poor success rate. The likelihood of a patient surviving depends on how early and aggressively the cancer is treated. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery are the most commonly used methods of treatment. Research into the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma is being conducted in research stations in the United States and by many pharmaceutical companies.


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The Symptoms Of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which is being discovered more and more frequently in elderly men. The most common cause of mesothelioma is from asbestos exposure and affects the membrane of many of the most vital internal organs such as the lungs and heart. Mesothelioma is particularly hard to diagnose because it shows similar symptoms to many other more common diseases.

The most common form of mesothelioma is called pleural mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma accounts for 75% of all mesothelioma cases. Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and has symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, breathing and swallowing difficulties, shortness of breath, wheezing and weight loss. These symptoms apply to many less serious diseases but anyone with signs of these symptoms are strongly advised to consult their doctor as soon as possible.

A less common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma and this form of the cancer affects the abdomen. The tissue lining the abdomen is called the peritoneum and this is what is affected. Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for 20% of all mesothelioma cases. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are weight loss, abdominal pains, loss of appetite, weakness, nausea, and abdominal swelling. These symptoms become more and more severe as the cancer develops. To learn more about these symptoms go to http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk

Those who are exposed to asbestos or have been exposed have a risk of obtaining mesothelioma. It is important that mesothelioma is diagnosed in its early stages so that it can be treated quickly and aggressively. The earlier it is discovered, the more likely the treatment will be successful.



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Mesothelioma – Your Basic Information

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is becoming more and more common. The most common cause of this cancer is exposure to asbestos. When constantly exposed with insufficient protection, asbestos dust and fibres affect the mesothelial cells which make up the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the outer lining that protects some of the body’s most vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The mesothelial cells become abnormal after lengthy periods of constant exposure to asbestos causing an array of problems.

Due to the latency period and symptoms of this cancer, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose. Mesothelioma takes decades to mature and develop fully and this is why many elderly men who were exposed to asbestos thirty years before are just discovering they have the cancer. A lot of these men are currently lodging multi-million dollar lawsuits against the companies that exposed them to the dangers of asbestos without sufficient protection.

The organs that are affected most by mesothelioma are the lungs. The most common type of mesothelioma which is called pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and can cause symptoms such as coughing, breathing and swallowing difficulties, shortness of breath and fever. Another area that can be affected by mesothelioma is the abdomen. This is less common and this is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include nausea and vomiting, weight loss, fever, bowel obstruction, loss of appetite and general pain in the stomach area. The last and least common type of mesothelioma is known as pericardial mesothelioma and it affects the heart and the tissue surrounding it. Symptoms of this form of the cancer include palpitations, breathing difficulties and persistent coughing. Generally, the symptoms of mesothelioma are typical of many other diseases and this makes it very difficult to diagnose.

There are treatments for mesothelioma although these are usually unsuccessful. If the cancer is treated aggressively in its early stages then there is a good chance of a patient surviving. However, due to the difficulty to diagnose mesothelioma, the cancer is not normally found until it is too late. Treatments that are used for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation therapy, palliative therapy and chemotherapy. Research for additional treatment of mesothelioma is being done at various cancer centers all over the United States as well as by pharmaceutical companies. For more information on the treatment of mesothelioma go to http://www.1-mesothelioma.co.uk/treatment.html



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