The idea of a personalized program for cancer treatment is not a new concept, but is now gaining some momentum for mesothelioma sufferers as the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is creating a way to treat mesothelioma tumors personally.
Rather than treating a patient with overarching treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation that don’t target the specific genetic mutations within a person’s tumors, personalized treatments study the tumors themselves and treat them based upon their biological makeup. With this in mind, the NCI has created its NCI-Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH) initiative that can help cancer sufferers have their tumors studied and treated based upon the tumors’ mutations.
By treating the specific biomarkers of the tumors, researchers and physicians are hoping that all cancer sufferers, including those with mesothelioma will enjoy increased success with stopping tumor growth and tumor shrinkage or, even, disappearance.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that attacks the linings of the lungs, heart, and abdomen and affects nearly 3,000 every year. Mesothelioma is currently considered a terminal condition with very limited treatment options. Clinical trials like the NCI-MATCH are considered the best chance for finding a cure for mesothelioma, per the National Institutes of Health.
Mesothelioma is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers which are released when working with the asbestos compound. Asbestos has been used for centuries because it is a durable and heat-resistant compound that works well in insulation, automobile brakes, roofing materials, and countless other industries.
Those exposed to asbestos are supposed to be protected by their employers and, if the employer chose not to protect you, then you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against your employer. For help from our Washington D.C. asbestos claim attorneys, please contact The Law Office of Brown| Kiely, LLP today. We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at (410) 625-9330.
