New Clinical Trials For Mesothelioma: What You Need To Know
Asbestos exposure can lead to a rare and aggressive form of cancer called mesothelioma. Unfortunately, it is often diagnosed in its later stages, making it difficult to treat. However, there is hope for patients with new clinical trials for mesothelioma.
Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. They are conducted with patients who volunteer to participate and may be a good option for those with mesothelioma who have exhausted other treatment options.
Types of Clinical Trials
There are several types of clinical trials for mesothelioma, including:
- Preventative trials to reduce the risk of mesothelioma in those at high risk of exposure
- Treatment trials to test new drugs or drug combinations
- Surgical trials to evaluate new surgical techniques
- Radiation trials to determine the effectiveness of new radiation therapies
Benefits of Clinical Trials
Participating in a clinical trial for mesothelioma can offer several benefits, such as:
- Access to new treatments before they are widely available
- Care from top mesothelioma specialists
- Potentially better outcomes than standard treatments
Risks of Clinical Trials
While clinical trials can offer many benefits, there are also some potential risks to consider, such as:
- Side effects from new treatments
- Uncertainty about the effectiveness of the treatment
- Additional time and expense for travel and medical care
How to Participate in a Clinical Trial
If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial for mesothelioma, talk to your doctor about your options. They can help you find a trial that is a good fit for your specific situation. You can also search for clinical trials near you using the National Cancer Institute's clinical trials database.
Current Clinical Trials for Mesothelioma
There are several clinical trials currently underway for mesothelioma, including:
- A phase II trial of a new drug called ONCOS-102 that stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells
- A phase III trial of a combination of chemotherapy drugs and a drug called bevacizumab that blocks blood vessel growth to tumors
- A phase II trial of a new surgical technique that combines pleurectomy/decortication with a heated chemotherapy solution
What Are the Side Effects of Mesothelioma Treatment?
Common side effects of mesothelioma treatment include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and hair loss.
What Is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors. However, the average life expectancy for mesothelioma is around 12-21 months.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries until the 1970s.
Can Mesothelioma Be Cured?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatments can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy.
How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as CT scans and X-rays, and biopsies to collect tissue samples for analysis.
What Is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. It is currently being studied as a potential treatment for mesothelioma.
What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments for mesothelioma.
What Is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments for mesothelioma.
Can Mesothelioma Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that may expose you to asbestos, be sure to follow safety guidelines and wear protective equipment.
Participating in a clinical trial for mesothelioma can offer access to new and potentially more effective treatments, as well as care from top mesothelioma specialists. It can also provide hope for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.
If you are considering participating in a clinical trial for mesothelioma, be sure to talk to your doctor about your options and any potential risks or benefits. You can also do your own research to find trials that may be a good fit for your specific situation.
New clinical trials for mesothelioma offer hope for patients who have exhausted other treatment options. While there are potential risks to consider, participating in a clinical trial can provide access to new and potentially more effective treatments as well as care from top mesothelioma specialists.
