Helping your friends adjust
Most of your friends will be looking for a comfortable way of dealing with your diagnosis. They may want direction on how to behave with you. Let them know how they can help you. If you think of something they can do, you will be doing them and you a favour.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
How do I tell the children?
Children usually guess something is wrong even if they don’t know what it is. By telling your children you will give them an opportunity to ask questions and express their feelings about what is happening. Reassure your children that the cancer is not their fault – it’s not anyone’s fault. What and how much you tell your children will depend on their age.
Children usually guess something is wrong even if they don’t know what it is. By telling your children you will give them an opportunity to ask questions and express their feelings about what is happening. Reassure your children that the cancer is not their fault – it’s not anyone’s fault. What and how much you tell your children will depend on their age.
Helping your family adjust
Cancer is difficult for everyone it affects. Your family needs to adjust to the diagnosis too. They may feel uncomfortable because they don’t know what to say but feel they should say something. They will experience the same fears, anger and anxieties as you. If your family has difficulty talking about the cancer it may help to speak to a counsellor or have them go to the doctor or hospital with you. This may help them accept your illness.
Cancer is difficult for everyone it affects. Your family needs to adjust to the diagnosis too. They may feel uncomfortable because they don’t know what to say but feel they should say something. They will experience the same fears, anger and anxieties as you. If your family has difficulty talking about the cancer it may help to speak to a counsellor or have them go to the doctor or hospital with you. This may help them accept your illness.
Sharing your diagnosis isn’t easy. You may feel uncomfortable talking about it. You may be unsure how you will react when you tell your family and friends and how they will respond. Having other people know will help you and your family share your anxiety and fears. You don’t have to face cancer alone.
Diagnosing lung cancer or mesothelioma
There are a number of tests to check for lung cancer or mesothelioma, including:
X-rays either standard x-rays or CT scans, which give a three-dimensional picture of your chest.
Sputum cytology test an examination of your sputum (phlegm), since cancer cells are sometimes coughed up.
Biopsy a small sample of lung cells removed with special instruments, under local or general anaesthetic.
Other tests such as bone, liver or brain scans and blood tests, to see if the cancer cells have spread to other parts of your body.
There are a number of tests to check for lung cancer or mesothelioma, including:
X-rays either standard x-rays or CT scans, which give a three-dimensional picture of your chest.
Sputum cytology test an examination of your sputum (phlegm), since cancer cells are sometimes coughed up.
Biopsy a small sample of lung cells removed with special instruments, under local or general anaesthetic.
Other tests such as bone, liver or brain scans and blood tests, to see if the cancer cells have spread to other parts of your body.
Malignant mesothelioma
This rare cancer affects the pleura, the outer covering of the lungs. It is strongly associated with past exposure to asbestos. The tumour begins in the pleura and spreads to the lung and chest wall. There is no cure currently available. It can take 30 to 40 years after exposure for asbestos to develop and be diagnosed.
This rare cancer affects the pleura, the outer covering of the lungs. It is strongly associated with past exposure to asbestos. The tumour begins in the pleura and spreads to the lung and chest wall. There is no cure currently available. It can take 30 to 40 years after exposure for asbestos to develop and be diagnosed.
Pleural disorders
The pleura is the tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the surface of the lungs. Asbestos may produce thickened patches on the pleura (pleural plaques) or a widespread fibrosis of the pleura and pleural effusions (fluid in the chest cavity). These conditions will show up on chest x-rays but they are not cancerous. They may not cause symptoms but will reduce lung capacity as shown in lung function tests.
The pleura is the tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the surface of the lungs. Asbestos may produce thickened patches on the pleura (pleural plaques) or a widespread fibrosis of the pleura and pleural effusions (fluid in the chest cavity). These conditions will show up on chest x-rays but they are not cancerous. They may not cause symptoms but will reduce lung capacity as shown in lung function tests.
Lung cancer
People exposed to large amounts of asbestos fibres over a long period of time have a significant risk of developing lung cancer. The risk is many times greater in people who also smoke. The tumour, if not treated early, spreads through the lung and eventually to other parts of the body. The most common symptom people first notice is a persistent cough. It usually takes 10 to 20 years for lung cancer to develop after asbestos exposure.
People exposed to large amounts of asbestos fibres over a long period of time have a significant risk of developing lung cancer. The risk is many times greater in people who also smoke. The tumour, if not treated early, spreads through the lung and eventually to other parts of the body. The most common symptom people first notice is a persistent cough. It usually takes 10 to 20 years for lung cancer to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestosis can be diagnosed by x-ray (fibrosis looks cloudy in chest x-rays) or a lung function test.
People who smoke are more likely to get asbestosis than people who don’t smoke. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, it is important to stop smoking to reduce your risk of getting asbestosis. If you stop smoking, you also reduce your risk of getting lung cancer.
People who smoke are more likely to get asbestosis than people who don’t smoke. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, it is important to stop smoking to reduce your risk of getting asbestosis. If you stop smoking, you also reduce your risk of getting lung cancer.
Asbestosis causes breathlessness, tightness in the chest, persistent coughing and the skin may have a bluish tinge from lack of oxygen. Getting enough oxygen from each breath needs a much greater effort. Asbestosis usually worsens over time. It can lead to respiratory failure and death. There is no cure for this disease.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is not a cancer. It is a chronic and progressive lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibres over a long period of time. It may take five to 20 years before symptoms develop. The accumulated, inhaled asbestos fibres produce scarring (fibrosis) of the lung. The lung develops a ‘honeycomb’ appearance. The scar tissue, or ‘fibrosis’, is hard and inflexible – this makes the lungs stiffen and stops them working properly.
Asbestosis is not a cancer. It is a chronic and progressive lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibres over a long period of time. It may take five to 20 years before symptoms develop. The accumulated, inhaled asbestos fibres produce scarring (fibrosis) of the lung. The lung develops a ‘honeycomb’ appearance. The scar tissue, or ‘fibrosis’, is hard and inflexible – this makes the lungs stiffen and stops them working properly.
Asbestos can cause serious illness
Asbestos fibres can cause health problems if they are breathed in. The body will remove most fibres that are breathed in, but some may get trapped in the lungs and cause disease many years later.
Breathing in asbestos fibres can sometimes lead to:
Asbestosis
Lung cancer
Pleural disorders
Malignant mesothelioma.
Asbestos fibres can cause health problems if they are breathed in. The body will remove most fibres that are breathed in, but some may get trapped in the lungs and cause disease many years later.
Breathing in asbestos fibres can sometimes lead to:
Asbestosis
Lung cancer
Pleural disorders
Malignant mesothelioma.
Asbestos in the home
Asbestos products are still commonly found in homes built or renovated prior to 1990. They can be harmful only if the asbestos fibres are released into the air and breathed in.
If building materials like asbestos cement sheeting (used for walls and roofs) are in good condition, the asbestos fibres are tightly bound and very few escape into the air. These materials are very unlikely to cause health problems. Even if the walls or roof are not in good condition, the number of fibres released is very small.
Asbestos products are still commonly found in homes built or renovated prior to 1990. They can be harmful only if the asbestos fibres are released into the air and breathed in.
If building materials like asbestos cement sheeting (used for walls and roofs) are in good condition, the asbestos fibres are tightly bound and very few escape into the air. These materials are very unlikely to cause health problems. Even if the walls or roof are not in good condition, the number of fibres released is very small.
asbestos use in new products is now banned
Since 31 December 2003, asbestos and all products containing asbestos have been banned Australia-wide. They cannot be imported, stored, supplied, sold, installed, used or re-used.
This ban does not extend to asbestos-containing products in existing installations such as vinyl floor tiles and asbestos cement (AC) roofing or sheeting. These products can be left in place until they need to be replaced.
Since 31 December 2003, asbestos and all products containing asbestos have been banned Australia-wide. They cannot be imported, stored, supplied, sold, installed, used or re-used.
This ban does not extend to asbestos-containing products in existing installations such as vinyl floor tiles and asbestos cement (AC) roofing or sheeting. These products can be left in place until they need to be replaced.
Asbestos and the building trades
Workers in the building trades such as plumbers, carpenters and electricians, could still be exposed to asbestos, especially those who are self-employed. People who work on asbestos-containing materials in such a way that fibres are released into the air – for example, when using power tools – are particularly at risk.
Workers in the building trades such as plumbers, carpenters and electricians, could still be exposed to asbestos, especially those who are self-employed. People who work on asbestos-containing materials in such a way that fibres are released into the air – for example, when using power tools – are particularly at risk.
Workers and families were at greatest risk
Workers involved in the mining, milling or manufacture of asbestos and in the construction, power and shipbuilding industries may have been exposed in the period before stringent controls were enforced.
Families of asbestos workers may also have been exposed to asbestos fibres brought home on workers’ clothing.
Workers involved in the mining, milling or manufacture of asbestos and in the construction, power and shipbuilding industries may have been exposed in the period before stringent controls were enforced.
Families of asbestos workers may also have been exposed to asbestos fibres brought home on workers’ clothing.
Exposure to airborne particles is the greatest risk
When the asbestos fibres become airborne, people working with asbestos may inhale particles. These particles remain in the lungs and, over time, can cause disease. A person’s chance of developing asbestos-related disease depends on how much asbestos they were exposed to and for how long.
When the asbestos fibres become airborne, people working with asbestos may inhale particles. These particles remain in the lungs and, over time, can cause disease. A person’s chance of developing asbestos-related disease depends on how much asbestos they were exposed to and for how long.
Asbestos can cause serious diseases including cancers, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer, and other non-malignant lung diseases such as asbestosis, pleural plaques and pleural thickening. Asbestos has been used in roofing, asbestos cement sheets and pipes, insulation, building materials and other products.
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© Commonwealth of Australia 2009
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Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer occurs when cells within the testis grow and divide abnormally.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of testicular cancer has increased substantially (up 66%), however the mortality rate has been declining.
There were 675 new cases of testicular cancer in 2004, accounting for 0.7% of all cancers and 1.2% of cancers in males.
The lifetime risk of males developing testicular cancer before the age of 75 is 1 in 209.
21 males in Australia died of testicular cancer in 2005.
Testicular cancer occurs when cells within the testis grow and divide abnormally.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of testicular cancer has increased substantially (up 66%), however the mortality rate has been declining.
There were 675 new cases of testicular cancer in 2004, accounting for 0.7% of all cancers and 1.2% of cancers in males.
The lifetime risk of males developing testicular cancer before the age of 75 is 1 in 209.
21 males in Australia died of testicular cancer in 2005.
Skin Cancer
The three most common types of skin cancer are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, along with several rare forms of skin cancer, are referred to collectively as non-melanoma skin cancer.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates for melanoma have been increasing.
In 2004, melanoma was the fourth most common cancer in Australia, accounting for 9.9% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, melanoma was the tenth most common form of cancer deaths in Australia, with 1273 deaths.
About 400 000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year in Australia. It is estimated that more than 400 Australians died from non-melanoma skin cancer in 2005.
The three most common types of skin cancer are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, along with several rare forms of skin cancer, are referred to collectively as non-melanoma skin cancer.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates for melanoma have been increasing.
In 2004, melanoma was the fourth most common cancer in Australia, accounting for 9.9% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, melanoma was the tenth most common form of cancer deaths in Australia, with 1273 deaths.
About 400 000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year in Australia. It is estimated that more than 400 Australians died from non-melanoma skin cancer in 2005.
Renal and Urinary Tract Cancer
Renal and urinary tract cancers include cancers of the kidney, bladder, urethra, paraurethral gland and renal pelvis.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates for bladder cancer have declined. The incidence rate of kidney cancer has increased substantially, however the mortality rate remains unchanged.
In 2004, cancers of the kidney and bladder were the ninth and tenth most common cancers in Australia.
In 2005, there were 905 deaths attributed to bladder cancer and 847 deaths attributed to kidney cancer.
Renal and urinary tract cancers include cancers of the kidney, bladder, urethra, paraurethral gland and renal pelvis.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates for bladder cancer have declined. The incidence rate of kidney cancer has increased substantially, however the mortality rate remains unchanged.
In 2004, cancers of the kidney and bladder were the ninth and tenth most common cancers in Australia.
In 2005, there were 905 deaths attributed to bladder cancer and 847 deaths attributed to kidney cancer.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate grow and divide abnormally and a tumour grows in the prostate. Prostate cancer cells can be very slow growing and not cause any problems or symptoms, and may not become life-threatening. In other cases, the cancer cells can grow more rapidly and may spread to other parts of the body.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of prostate cancer in Australian males has more than doubled. This is likely to be the result of increased detection through PSA testing. In contrast, the mortality rate has only declined slightly.
Prostate cancer was the most common cancer in Australia in 2004, accounting for 16% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, prostate cancer was the fourth most common cause of cancer death in Australia, accounting for 7.5% of all cancer deaths. There were 2837 deaths from prostate cancer, accounting for 13.5% of cancer deaths in Australian men.
Prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate grow and divide abnormally and a tumour grows in the prostate. Prostate cancer cells can be very slow growing and not cause any problems or symptoms, and may not become life-threatening. In other cases, the cancer cells can grow more rapidly and may spread to other parts of the body.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of prostate cancer in Australian males has more than doubled. This is likely to be the result of increased detection through PSA testing. In contrast, the mortality rate has only declined slightly.
Prostate cancer was the most common cancer in Australia in 2004, accounting for 16% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, prostate cancer was the fourth most common cause of cancer death in Australia, accounting for 7.5% of all cancer deaths. There were 2837 deaths from prostate cancer, accounting for 13.5% of cancer deaths in Australian men.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a general term for a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system. There are many forms of lymphoma; the two main types are Hodgkin’s disease and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL). Both of these forms involve a malignant growth of cells in the lymph system, however the cells involved in NHL are specifically B- or T-cells of the lymph system. NHL is the most common form of lymphoma.
The lymphoma incidence rate has increased over the last 20 years by 37%, however the mortality rate associated with lymphoma has fallen by 16%.
In 2004, lymphomas were the sixth most common cancers in Australia, with 4272 new cases reported.
In 2005, lymphomas were responsible for 1454 deaths, with the majority caused by NHL (1390 deaths compared to 64 deaths from Hodgkin’s disease).
Lymphoma is a general term for a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system. There are many forms of lymphoma; the two main types are Hodgkin’s disease and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL). Both of these forms involve a malignant growth of cells in the lymph system, however the cells involved in NHL are specifically B- or T-cells of the lymph system. NHL is the most common form of lymphoma.
The lymphoma incidence rate has increased over the last 20 years by 37%, however the mortality rate associated with lymphoma has fallen by 16%.
In 2004, lymphomas were the sixth most common cancers in Australia, with 4272 new cases reported.
In 2005, lymphomas were responsible for 1454 deaths, with the majority caused by NHL (1390 deaths compared to 64 deaths from Hodgkin’s disease).
Lung Cancer
There are four main classifications of lung cancer: squamous cell carcinomas, adenocarcinomas, small cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Because the behaviour and management of squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma are very similar, they are often grouped together as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in contrast to small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which has a distinct natural history and management.
Over the last 20 years, lung cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased slightly. However, this is due to a large decline in lung cancer in males – the incidence rate of lung cancer in Australia females has increased by 50% and the mortality rate by more than 30%.
In 2004, lung cancer was the fifth most common cancer in Australia, accounting for 9.2% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths, responsible for 19.1% of all cancer deaths (7399 deaths).
There are four main classifications of lung cancer: squamous cell carcinomas, adenocarcinomas, small cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Because the behaviour and management of squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma are very similar, they are often grouped together as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in contrast to small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which has a distinct natural history and management.
Over the last 20 years, lung cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased slightly. However, this is due to a large decline in lung cancer in males – the incidence rate of lung cancer in Australia females has increased by 50% and the mortality rate by more than 30%.
In 2004, lung cancer was the fifth most common cancer in Australia, accounting for 9.2% of all new cancer cases.
In 2005, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths, responsible for 19.1% of all cancer deaths (7399 deaths).
Leukaemia
Leukaemia occurs in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. Abnormal white blood cells multiply rapidly and spill into the blood stream, crowding out healthy cells. There are many forms of leukaemia and these are generally classified broadly as chronic (develops slowly) or acute (develops quickly).
The most common forms of leukaemia are chronic and acute forms of lymphocytic leukaemia and myeloid leukaemia.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of leukaemia in the Australian population has remained stable, with the mortality rate declining slightly.
In 2005, leukaemia was responsible for 1414 deaths in Australia, accounting for 3.6% of all cancer deaths. Leukaemia caused 800 male deaths and 614 female deaths.
Leukaemia occurs in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. Abnormal white blood cells multiply rapidly and spill into the blood stream, crowding out healthy cells. There are many forms of leukaemia and these are generally classified broadly as chronic (develops slowly) or acute (develops quickly).
The most common forms of leukaemia are chronic and acute forms of lymphocytic leukaemia and myeloid leukaemia.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of leukaemia in the Australian population has remained stable, with the mortality rate declining slightly.
In 2005, leukaemia was responsible for 1414 deaths in Australia, accounting for 3.6% of all cancer deaths. Leukaemia caused 800 male deaths and 614 female deaths.
Generally, the overall incidence and mortality rates associated with head and neck cancers are declining.
In 2004, there were 2517 new cases of head and neck cancers. Head and neck cancers were the eighth most common cancer in Australia (2.6% of all new cancer cases).
Males were far more likely to have a head or neck cancer, with 1830 new cases reported, accounting for 3.3% all male cancers, compared to 687 cases in females, 1.6% of female cancers.
In 2004, the most common forms of head and neck cancers were:
Larynx (592 cases; 526 male, 66 female)
Tongue (506 cases; 332 male, 174 female)
Mouth (435 cases; 254 male, 181 female).
In 2005, head and neck cancers were responsible for 888 deaths in Australia, accounting for 2.3% of all cancer deaths. There were more deaths in males (677 or 3.1% of all male cancer deaths) than females (211 or 1.2% of all female cancer deaths).
In 2004, there were 2517 new cases of head and neck cancers. Head and neck cancers were the eighth most common cancer in Australia (2.6% of all new cancer cases).
Males were far more likely to have a head or neck cancer, with 1830 new cases reported, accounting for 3.3% all male cancers, compared to 687 cases in females, 1.6% of female cancers.
In 2004, the most common forms of head and neck cancers were:
Larynx (592 cases; 526 male, 66 female)
Tongue (506 cases; 332 male, 174 female)
Mouth (435 cases; 254 male, 181 female).
In 2005, head and neck cancers were responsible for 888 deaths in Australia, accounting for 2.3% of all cancer deaths. There were more deaths in males (677 or 3.1% of all male cancer deaths) than females (211 or 1.2% of all female cancer deaths).
Head and Neck Cancers
Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck, such as those in the mouth, nose and throat. The particular areas that are most prone to developing cancer include the tongue, mouth, salivary glands, oropharynx, nasopharynx, nasal cavity and larynx. (This category excludes lip and brain tumours).
Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck, such as those in the mouth, nose and throat. The particular areas that are most prone to developing cancer include the tongue, mouth, salivary glands, oropharynx, nasopharynx, nasal cavity and larynx. (This category excludes lip and brain tumours).
Gynaecological Cancers
Gynaecological cancers are cancers of the female reproductive system and include cancers of the ovary, cervix, uterus, vulva, vagina and placenta.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in Australian women has decreased by more than 50%. Mortality rates associated with ovarian and uterine cancers has also decreased.
In 2005 gynaecological cancers were responsible for 1558 female deaths in Australia, accounting for 9.2% of all female cancer deaths. Collectively they are the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in females.
The most common cause of death from a gynaecological cancer were cancers of the:
Ovary: 884 deaths (5.2% of all female cancer deaths)
Uterus, body: 232 deaths (1.4% of all female cancer deaths)
Cervix: 216 deaths (1.3% of all female cancer deaths).
Gynaecological cancers are cancers of the female reproductive system and include cancers of the ovary, cervix, uterus, vulva, vagina and placenta.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in Australian women has decreased by more than 50%. Mortality rates associated with ovarian and uterine cancers has also decreased.
In 2005 gynaecological cancers were responsible for 1558 female deaths in Australia, accounting for 9.2% of all female cancer deaths. Collectively they are the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in females.
The most common cause of death from a gynaecological cancer were cancers of the:
Ovary: 884 deaths (5.2% of all female cancer deaths)
Uterus, body: 232 deaths (1.4% of all female cancer deaths)
Cervix: 216 deaths (1.3% of all female cancer deaths).
Lower gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers include cancers of the colon and rectum (collectively termed colorectal or bowel cancers) and anus.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of colorectal cancer has remained stable, while the mortality rate declined by 38%. Females had a larger reduction in the rate of colorectal cancer mortality than males.
In 2004, colorectal cancer was the second most common cancer in the Australian population, accounting for 13.2% of all cancers.
In 2005, colorectal cancer was the second most common form of cancer death in Australia. More than 4100 deaths were attributed to colorectal cancer, accounting for 10.6% of all cancer deaths in Australia.
Over the last 20 years, the incidence rate of colorectal cancer has remained stable, while the mortality rate declined by 38%. Females had a larger reduction in the rate of colorectal cancer mortality than males.
In 2004, colorectal cancer was the second most common cancer in the Australian population, accounting for 13.2% of all cancers.
In 2005, colorectal cancer was the second most common form of cancer death in Australia. More than 4100 deaths were attributed to colorectal cancer, accounting for 10.6% of all cancer deaths in Australia.
Digestive System Cancers
Upper gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers include cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Over the last 20 years, pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality rates have remained relatively stable. Incidence and mortality rates associated with oesophageal cancer have increased slightly, however stomach cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased dramatically (incidence rate decreasing by 36%, mortality rate by 53%).
The most common upper GI cancers in 2004 were cancers of the:
Pancreas: 2075 new cases (2.1% of all new cancer cases)
Stomach: 1946 new cases (2%)
Oesophagus: 1208 new cases (1.2%).
Upper gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers include cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
Over the last 20 years, pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality rates have remained relatively stable. Incidence and mortality rates associated with oesophageal cancer have increased slightly, however stomach cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased dramatically (incidence rate decreasing by 36%, mortality rate by 53%).
The most common upper GI cancers in 2004 were cancers of the:
Pancreas: 2075 new cases (2.1% of all new cancer cases)
Stomach: 1946 new cases (2%)
Oesophagus: 1208 new cases (1.2%).
Central Nervous System Cancers
Central nervous system (CNS) cancers include brain and other central nervous system cancers including meninges (the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord) and spinal cord.
Brain cancer caused the majority of CNS deaths, with 611 males and 437 females dying from brain cancer in 2005. Brain cancer was one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Australian children.
The incidence and mortality of brain cancer in Australia have remained relatively stable over the last 20 years.
Central nervous system (CNS) cancers include brain and other central nervous system cancers including meninges (the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord) and spinal cord.
Brain cancer caused the majority of CNS deaths, with 611 males and 437 females dying from brain cancer in 2005. Brain cancer was one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Australian children.
The incidence and mortality of brain cancer in Australia have remained relatively stable over the last 20 years.
Cancer of Unknown Primary site
Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) origin is diagnosed when cancer is found, having spread elsewhere in the body, but the place where the cancer began (the primary site) cannot be determined.
Generally, over the last 20 years, the rate of incidence of CUP has been declining (-22%), however the mortality rate associated with CUP has been increasing (up by 12%).
In 2004, CUP was the seventh most common cancer in Australia, with 3292 new cases reported, accounting for 3.3% of new cancers in the Australian population.
In 2005, CUP was the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia. There were 3378 deaths attributed to CUP, accounting for 8.7% of all cancer deaths in Australia.
Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) origin is diagnosed when cancer is found, having spread elsewhere in the body, but the place where the cancer began (the primary site) cannot be determined.
Generally, over the last 20 years, the rate of incidence of CUP has been declining (-22%), however the mortality rate associated with CUP has been increasing (up by 12%).
In 2004, CUP was the seventh most common cancer in Australia, with 3292 new cases reported, accounting for 3.3% of new cancers in the Australian population.
In 2005, CUP was the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia. There were 3378 deaths attributed to CUP, accounting for 8.7% of all cancer deaths in Australia.
Breast Cancer
There are different types of breast cancer. Most start in the milk ducts and some in the milk sacs. Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the lymph nodes situated in the armpits.
Generally, over the last 20 years, the rate of incidence of breast cancer in Australian women has been increasing (up by 34%), however the mortality rate has been falling (-21%).
In 2004, breast cancer was the third most common form of cancer in Australia, with 12 235 new cases (12.4% of all cancer cases). It is the most common cancer affecting Australian women.
In 2005, breast cancer was the fifth most common cause of cancer death in Australia, with 2736 deaths reported (7% of cancer related deaths).
It was the most common cause of cancer deaths in females, with 2716 deaths (16% of all female deaths).
17 men died from breast cancer in Australia in the same year.
There are different types of breast cancer. Most start in the milk ducts and some in the milk sacs. Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the lymph nodes situated in the armpits.
Generally, over the last 20 years, the rate of incidence of breast cancer in Australian women has been increasing (up by 34%), however the mortality rate has been falling (-21%).
In 2004, breast cancer was the third most common form of cancer in Australia, with 12 235 new cases (12.4% of all cancer cases). It is the most common cancer affecting Australian women.
In 2005, breast cancer was the fifth most common cause of cancer death in Australia, with 2736 deaths reported (7% of cancer related deaths).
It was the most common cause of cancer deaths in females, with 2716 deaths (16% of all female deaths).
17 men died from breast cancer in Australia in the same year.
While the age-standardised incidence rates of most cancers are expected to remain relatively stable in the short term, the number of new cases will continue to rise due to the ageing of the Australian population. The largest projected increases are for the most common cancers, prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women. A continuing increase is also expected in the number of people affected by lung cancer.
However, some sections of the Australian population have poorer survival rates and cancer outcomes, specifically:
people from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background;
people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds;
people who are socio-economically disadvantaged; and
people living in rural and remote areas.
people from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background;
people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds;
people who are socio-economically disadvantaged; and
people living in rural and remote areas.
Mortality (deaths from cancer)
Cancer is the leading cause of premature death in Australia. In 2004 (the latest year for which we have national data), more than 38 000 Australians died from cancer.
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in Australia, followed by colorectal (large bowel) cancer, cancer of unknown primary site, prostate cancer and breast cancer. These five cancers caused more than half of all deaths from cancer in 2004.
Cancer is the leading cause of premature death in Australia. In 2004 (the latest year for which we have national data), more than 38 000 Australians died from cancer.
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in Australia, followed by colorectal (large bowel) cancer, cancer of unknown primary site, prostate cancer and breast cancer. These five cancers caused more than half of all deaths from cancer in 2004.
Numbers of new cancers diagnosed each year increased by 25 per cent from 1994 to 2004. Given our increasing and ageing population, the number of new cancers diagnosed each year is expected to keep rising. However, when we adjust rates to consider our ageing population, incidence rates are about the same for all cancers combined in 2004 as they were in 1994.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
More About Pleural Effusion
he most lethal disease associated with asbestos is mesothelioma cancer, a swiftly moving carcinoma that has as one of its principal symptoms pleural effusion. The disease can develop in a number of locations, including the lining of the sac around the heart and the lining of the abdominal wall; but by far the most common location for mesothelioma development is in the outer lining of the lungs, a membrane called the pleura.
Pleural Effusion Symptoms & Diagnosis
Did you know that the first sign of asbestos exposure can be "water on the lung" (a pleural effusion - the pleura is a cellophane-like covering over the lungs - the visceral [organ] pleura [lining] and covering the chest cavity - the parietal [chest cavity] pleura [lining]). Unfortunately, most exposed workers never know they have such "water" accumulation.
Asbestos Lung Cancer and the Law
Hundreds of thousands of health related liability claims have been filed against asbestos companies; in many of them lung cancer has been cited as one of the damages. Asbestos is recognized by the courts as a contributing toxin to several health problems and thousands of people have been compensated for contributory asbestos damage.
The Three Asbestos Diseases
Asbestos can contribute to everything from bronchitis to emphysema, but there are three diseases for which it can be a primary instigator – all of which can be fatal:
• asbestosis
• Mesothelioma
• Lung Cancer
There is no doubt that in past generations mesothelioma was often misdiagnosed as lung cancer by a physician or coroner filling out a death certificate. The frequency of asbestos-caused lung cancer today can be interpreted in many ways.
• asbestosis
• Mesothelioma
• Lung Cancer
There is no doubt that in past generations mesothelioma was often misdiagnosed as lung cancer by a physician or coroner filling out a death certificate. The frequency of asbestos-caused lung cancer today can be interpreted in many ways.
When Asbestos Causes Lung Cancer
Asbestos is also recognized as a potential primary cause for lung cancer; in fact the way asbestos most often enters the body is through the lungs. Tiny asbestos fibers that have broken off from an asbestos product that is being manipulated or is deteriorating can float in the air like tiny dust particles and be inadvertently inhaled.
Mesothelioma – A Cancer with a Single Cause
This malignancy strikes in the mesothelium, which is a thin membrane that covers and protects several areas within the body. Various parts of the mesothelium have various names: the peritoneum is the portion of the mesothelium that covers the wall of the abdominal cavity. The pericardium is a mesothelial sac around the heart. The pleura are two parts of the mesothelium that cover the chest wall and provide the outer lining of the lungs. Mesothelioma may develop in any of these locations.
Asbestos & Mesothelioma Lung Cancer
Asbestos can cause lung cancer and has done so with thousands of people who were exposed to asbestos on the job. However asbestos is primarily known for its unique ability to develop mesothelioma, a form of cancer that can occur in several areas of the body. Asbestos can be one of many causes for lung cancer; it is the only known cause for mesothelioma.
Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms
The pericardium is the lining that surrounds the heart. Mesothelioma affecting this area of the body is known as pericardial mesothelioma and symptoms include:
Heart palpitations
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Persistent coughing
If you have a history of asbestos exposure and have experienced any of these symptoms, you should consult with a physician immediately. To speak with a mesothelioma lawyer, please contact us.
Heart palpitations
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Persistent coughing
If you have a history of asbestos exposure and have experienced any of these symptoms, you should consult with a physician immediately. To speak with a mesothelioma lawyer, please contact us.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity is called peritoneal mesothelioma. Symptoms of this type of mesothelioma include:
Stomach pain
Weight loss
Nausea
Vomiting
Swollen belly
Bowel obstruction
Anemia
Fever
Blood clotting abnormalities
Stomach pain
Weight loss
Nausea
Vomiting
Swollen belly
Bowel obstruction
Anemia
Fever
Blood clotting abnormalities
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma may include:
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing
Coughing
Sweating
Fever
Weight loss
Fatigue
Swelling in the upper body, especially the face and arms
Lower back pain
Pain in the side of the chest
Muscle weakness
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing
Coughing
Sweating
Fever
Weight loss
Fatigue
Swelling in the upper body, especially the face and arms
Lower back pain
Pain in the side of the chest
Muscle weakness
Mesothelioma Signs & Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a serious type of cancer that attacks the membrane surrounding various organs. Symptoms of mesothelioma may take anywhere between 20 to 40 years or more to manifest themselves. And because early mesothelioma symptoms tend to be general, they often go ignored or else confused for symptoms of less serious ailments. Generally, however, individuals begin to manifest mesothelioma symptoms two to three months prior to being diagnosed .
Mesothelioma Specialists
That doctor could be a thoracic surgeon, a pulmonologist or an oncologist. It is not a standard practice for patients to seek out specialists without a referral. Many insurance companies won’t pay for such a visit without a referral. But for potential mesothelioma patients, sometimes it makes sense to accelerate the process by being aggressive. At the very least, work with a primary care provider who is familiar with the characteristics of mesothelioma and understands the urgency that goes with mesothelioma symptoms.
Primary Physicians
One of the problems in achieving an early mesothelioma diagnosis is the fact that the disease shares symptoms with many other more common afflictions. Moreover, most people who are developing mesothelioma today are retired or in their 60s or 70s. Physicians tend to expect ailments to develop more readily in older people, which is not unreasonable. But for someone with a history of asbestos exposure, prompt exploration of seemingly small matters like a persistent cough is important.
Mesothelioma Doctors
With cancer more than most diseases, early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. For mesothelioma it is critical. For that reason, people who have a history of asbestos exposure in their past should be sensitive to respiratory symptoms when they develop. Equally important is finding a doctor that understands the nature of the disease and the role that asbestos plays in its development.
New Approaches to Mesothelioma Treatment
Medical technology is moving just as fast as consumer oriented technology, and the treatment concepts for mesothelioma are no exception. Because mesothelioma is a relatively rare disease compared to other forms of cancer, the therapies being tested are also focused on more common malignancies. But the focus of these mesothelioma treatment concepts is generally seeking new and more productive ways to destroy malignant cells and/or stop their reproduction.
Chemotherapy
There is a lot going on in mesothelioma chemotherapy research; the various types of chemotherapy have evolved as physicians have learned about the types of malignant cells that are present with mesothelioma. Cancer cells have various designs which means they have different strengths and weaknesses. There are two types of cells associated with mesothelioma and they react to different types of treatments. With increasing frequency, mesothelioma diagnoses are showing cases with both types of cells – a condition called biphasic mesothelioma.
Radiotherapy
Treatment options both for patients who have had surgery and those for which surgery is not an option nearly always includes chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This treatment mode uses radiation to kill cancerous cells; it is perhaps the oldest non-surgical treatment for malignancy in Western medicine. Radiation can be effective in killing cancer cells but it is not a very precise technology, so the radiation beams tend to kill healthy cells adjacent to the malignant cells on which it is targeted.
Variables for Mesothelioma Treatment
Treatment for mesothelioma is dictated by a number of variables. An oncologist or pulmonary specialist who has diagnosed a patient with mesothelioma designs a program that will be most effective with:
• The location or type of the disease
• The stage of the disease
• The overall health of the patient
• The location or type of the disease
• The stage of the disease
• The overall health of the patient
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma is a complicated disease, an aggressive and lethal form of cancer caused by human exposure to asbestos. Specifically, mesothelioma is caused by tiny asbestos fibers that can be inadvertently inhaled or ingested. These tough fibers lodge in the mesothelium, a membrane of thin tissue that protects various organs and surfaces within the body. Eventually they will cause the generation of malignant cells which reproduce quickly and uncontrollably, launching the development of malignant mesothelioma.
Treatment of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Unfortunately for most people who are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, by the time symptoms of the disease appear, the cancer has progressed to a stage where conventional treatments are largely ineffective for anything other than providing temporary relief of symptoms. The difficulty of diagnosing pericardial mesothelioma at an early stage means that the long-term prognosis for most people with the disease is very poor. The average patient survives just six months post-diagnosis.
Pericardial Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is problematic, as the nature of these symptoms is relatively non-specific, in that they can appear as a result of several other cardiac conditions. Diagnosis will involve reviewing an individual’s medical history as well as assessing their current medical condition.
Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
The rarity of pericardial mesothelioma has made it difficult for specialists to determine a specific set of common symptoms. The following symptoms often indicate a cardiac condition, but further tests are required to confirm a diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma.
Chest pain
Irregular heartbeat
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Irregular heartbeat
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Asbestos and Pericardial Mesothelioma
It is well known that asbestos fibers inhaled into the lung are the cause of pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. However, the means by which asbestos causes pericardial mesothelioma is not well understood, although it is believed that asbestos fibers may travel from the lungs to the heart via the bloodstream.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form of a mesothelioma. Only around 5% of mesothelioma cases are pericardial. This type of mesothelioma affects the pericardium, which is a membranous lining that surrounds the heart, providing both support and protection to the organ.
Mesothelioma & Asbestos
At least six hundred thousand Mesothelioma claims have been filed in the United States alone. A mesothelioma claim can be filed by the victim or their loved ones in the event that mesothelioma has already claimed that person's life. A mesothelioma claim can help a victim or their loved ones to receive compensation for their losses including medical expenses, loss of income or earning potential, disability, and psychological suffering.
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Claims
A mesothelioma claim is the lawsuit that is filed on behalf of an individual who has developed mesothelioma as a result of harmful exposure to asbestos. A mesothelioma claim is filed against the party who is responsible for the victim's exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma claim defendants can be government organizations, manufacturers, employers, asbestos removal professionals, or any other party whose negligence contributed to harmful asbestos exposure.
Why File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
A mesothelioma lawsuit can be filed in the legal system in order to seek reparations for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering associated with the development of this disease. Employers and manufactures of asbestos containing products can be held liable for the injuries that develop as a result, especially when they were aware of the risks associated with the level of exposure they caused or permitted. Contacting a qualified lawyer is often the first step in discovering what your legal rights and options might be in a mesothelioma lawsuit. For more information on a mesothelioma lawsuit, please Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney who is familiar with other mesothelioma cases.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare but fatal cancer that is caused by this harmful exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium that surrounds and protects the internal organs of the body and can affect any organ in the body including the brain, heart and reproductive organs. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common and affects the lining surrounding the lungs. This lining can become cancerous when asbestos is inhaled at toxic levels. Many times the disease is asymptomatic, though symptoms may include a persistent cough, pain in the chest area or shortness of breath.
Who Is At Risk?
Asbestos has been used to make more than 5000 products in the last few hundred years. Asbestos is a naturally occurring group of minerals that is used to make products such as vehicle brakes and building materials. Asbestos is added to these products because it aids in heat and corrosion resistance. The deadly effects of asbestos have been known for over sixty years, though it continues to be used in a variety of industries. People in the construction, automotive, factory, railroad, shipyard, and custodial industries may all be at risk for the serious health consequences resulting from toxic exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Lawsuit
A mesothelioma lawsuit is filed by a victim of mesothelioma in order to recover damages associated with their development of this asbestos related cancer. A mesothelioma case can help a victim seek reparations for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering. Mesothelioma develops almost exclusively as a result of toxic exposure to asbestos. This disease can remain latent in a victim for up to forty years; therefore people who were exposed to asbestos in the environment in the 1950s may still be at risk for developing this disease.
Asbestos litigation
Some lawsuits are in federal court, some in state courts, and some claims are filed directly with one or more trust funds. Generally, an asbestos lawsuit today is filed against more than one company; the court where these suits are filed will be a strategic decision made by your attorney.
Asbestos litigation is a legal world of its own, and the situation within it is fluid. Be sure that if you intend to file an asbestos lawsuit, you do so with experienced counsel that can be sure your claims are filed properly and handled efficiently.
Asbestos litigation is a legal world of its own, and the situation within it is fluid. Be sure that if you intend to file an asbestos lawsuit, you do so with experienced counsel that can be sure your claims are filed properly and handled efficiently.
Asbestos Litigation Today
Asbestos litigation today requires an experienced asbestos attorney to manage the case. Because of the volume of lawsuits initiated every year, many court jurisdictions have taken to designating a specific judge for hearing all asbestos claims. A good asbestos attorney knows the situation in every state regarding asbestos claims and files accordingly.
Asbestos Companies File Bankruptcy
The result of the corporate bankruptcy settlements for many of these corporations has included the establishment of a trust fund that the company sets aside to cover compensation for those who file claims based on asbestos exposure. Several of those trust funds hold well in excess of $1 billion dollars. An integral part of any asbestos litigation today may involve filing claims directly with those trust funds as well as against the companies that were responsible for the asbestos exposure suffered by the plaintiff.
Asbestos Litigation
Taken together, all of the asbestos lawsuits filed in the United States over the past fifty years constitute the longest running mass tort in the country’s history. A tort is defined in dictionaries as a civil action taken based on a negligent or intentional harm done that is not based on statute law.
Legal Options for Cancer Sufferers
Learn More About Your Legal Options
If you have epithelial mesothelioma, you have the legal right to recover what you have lost. To find out about your rights and options in an epithelial malignant mesothelioma case, Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney for mesothelioma help.
If you have epithelial mesothelioma, you have the legal right to recover what you have lost. To find out about your rights and options in an epithelial malignant mesothelioma case, Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney for mesothelioma help.
Who Is At Risk of Epithelial Malignant Mesothelioma?
People who are at risk for developing epithelial malignant mesothelioma include employees who work with asbestos containing materials. Construction workers are particularly at risk, though professionals in the building, shipyard, railroad, and automobile industries as well as people with custodial duties may also be at risk. People who were exposed to asbestos as long ago at the 1940s may still be at risk for contracting this life threatening cancer.
exposed to asbestos
A person who has been exposed to asbestos for one or two months has the potential to develop epithelial malignant mesothelioma or other asbestos related illnesses up to fifty years later. Mesothelioma has a long latency period. Once diagnosed the prognosis is often bleak. The average patient has a year left to live after they discover their condition.
Many patients are asymptomatic
Many patients are asymptomatic. The right lung is affected sixty percent of the time, the left lung thirty five percent, and both lungs are affected in five percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma cases.
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is also common in the peritoneum of the abdomen. This is caused by the ingestion of asbestos that enters the air. Patients with this type of mesothelioma may also remain asymptomatic for years and years, though the following symptoms may be present: weight loss, nausea, effusion (fluid build-up) in the stomach, bowel difficulties, foot swelling and anemia. Malignant mesothelioma can also affect the reproductive organs, the heart, and other major organs.
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is also common in the peritoneum of the abdomen. This is caused by the ingestion of asbestos that enters the air. Patients with this type of mesothelioma may also remain asymptomatic for years and years, though the following symptoms may be present: weight loss, nausea, effusion (fluid build-up) in the stomach, bowel difficulties, foot swelling and anemia. Malignant mesothelioma can also affect the reproductive organs, the heart, and other major organs.
Where is Epithelial Mesothelioma Found?
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. Mesothelioma is cancer to any of the tissues that surround internal organs. Sixty percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma occurs in the pleural tissues of the lungs. This develops almost exclusively as a result of asbestos inhalation. The symptoms of epithelial malignant mesothelioma that affect the lungs include:
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough
Pain in the chest
Viral pneumonia symptoms
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough
Pain in the chest
Viral pneumonia symptoms
Are you suffering from malignant mesothelioma?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, you don’t have to suffer alone. There are a number of financial, emotional, and medical resources available to you.
Early Detection of Cancer
If the disease is discovered early, surgery may be able to remove most of the cancerous tissue. However, malignant mesothelioma spreads rapidly and can affect other organs. During advanced stages of the cancer, mesothelioma chemotherapy treatment and radiation can help to minimize symptoms. Complete recovery may not be possible.
Symptoms of malignant mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma has an extremely long latency period that can take anywhere between 20 to 50 years from the initial exposure to the diagnosis of the disease. Some common mesothelioma symptoms of the malignant type include:
chest pains
cough
shortness of breath
severe weight loss
chest pains
cough
shortness of breath
severe weight loss
Types of malignant mesothelioma
There are two primary types of malignant mesothelioma:
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the cancer, grows in the lining covering the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue lining the abdominal cavity.
Mesothelioma is also broken down into cell types, which depend on what the cells look like under a microscope. The cell types include epithelial (50 to 70 percent are diagnosed with this type), sarcomatoid (seven to 20 percent have this type), or mixed (20 to 35 percent have both epithelial and sarcomatoid cells).
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the cancer, grows in the lining covering the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue lining the abdominal cavity.
Mesothelioma is also broken down into cell types, which depend on what the cells look like under a microscope. The cell types include epithelial (50 to 70 percent are diagnosed with this type), sarcomatoid (seven to 20 percent have this type), or mixed (20 to 35 percent have both epithelial and sarcomatoid cells).
Who is at risk for malignant mesothelioma?
The most common cause of malignant mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Workers in the steel, mining, plumbing, milling, insulation, and electric industries, among hundreds of others who handle or manufacture asbestos products, are at the highest risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
While the risks of the disease increase depending on the frequency and intensity of asbestos exposure, there have been a number of malignant mesothelioma cases among people who have had only one or two months of exposure.
While the risks of the disease increase depending on the frequency and intensity of asbestos exposure, there have been a number of malignant mesothelioma cases among people who have had only one or two months of exposure.
Malignant Mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lung, chest cavity, or abdominal cavity. If a tumor formed in the mesothelium—special cells that protect the organs—are cancerous, the disease is called malignant mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is almost always caused by workplace or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
Attorneys who represent mesothelioma patients are prepared to discuss your circumstances with you and advise you of your legal rights. Whether you simply have questions or need full legal representation, the first step is to contact a mesothelioma attorney today for a complimentary consultation.
Cancer Compensation
The medical bills alone for mesothelioma often run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Years of lost income or reduced earning capacity further add to the losses. When a loved one with mesothelioma passes away, the loss of support and companionship and the emotional pain and suffering can all be overwhelming. A mesothelioma attorney understands these losses, having helped other victims and their families obtain compensation for their damages.
In fact, mesothelioma attorneys have helped asbestos victims across the country receive millions of dollars worth of compensation for:
Medical treatments including surgery and chemotherapy
Hospice and/or palliative care
Funeral/burial expenses
Pain and suffering
Loss of companionship
If you are one of the thousands of patients who have not received fair compensation for your losses, a mesothelioma lawyer can help you.
In fact, mesothelioma attorneys have helped asbestos victims across the country receive millions of dollars worth of compensation for:
Medical treatments including surgery and chemotherapy
Hospice and/or palliative care
Funeral/burial expenses
Pain and suffering
Loss of companionship
If you are one of the thousands of patients who have not received fair compensation for your losses, a mesothelioma lawyer can help you.
Asbestos Exposure
It’s estimated that since the early 1940s, at least three million Americans received high-level exposure to asbestos, often at their workplaces. Others have been exposed to asbestos at home, whether by washing asbestos dust-laden clothing or from the many building materials that contain asbestos. Still others grew up attending schools where asbestos was used in walls, ceilings, flooring, even bricks.
Mesothelioma & Asbestos Attorney
The mission of a mesothelioma attorney is to help obtain compensation for individuals with this life-threatening cancer. The vast majority of cases of mesothelioma are due to exposure to the carcinogenic mineral asbestos, which was used in thousands of products dating from the 1880s through 1989. Every mesothelioma attorney knows of the devastation that this cancer wreaks on patients and their families.
Asbestos Fibers and Cancer
It takes years for the asbestos fibers to work their way into those membranes; after an extended presence they begin to cause fluid accumulation and tumor development. However the first mesothelioma symptoms are such afflictions as a persistent cough or shortness of breath - symptoms that are often mistaken for evidence of more common lung problems, which delays the mesothelioma diagnosis even further.
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos was one of the most common industrial materials put to use in the twentieth century. It has also proven to be one of the most lethal, as inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to a wide range of pulmonary problems such as asthma and asbestosis - and can also be the direct cause of mesothelioma.
What is mesothelioma? It is a lethal cancer that attacks the membranes around the lungs, the heart and the abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma cancer of the lungs is by far the most common form. Perhaps its most unusual characteristic is that mesothelioma diagnosis usually occurs decades after the initial exposure to asbestos.
What is mesothelioma? It is a lethal cancer that attacks the membranes around the lungs, the heart and the abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma cancer of the lungs is by far the most common form. Perhaps its most unusual characteristic is that mesothelioma diagnosis usually occurs decades after the initial exposure to asbestos.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Diagnosing Cancer
For anyone not familiar with the process of how cancer is usually diagnosed, here is a bit of discussion on it:
Most cancers are initially recognized either because signs or symptoms appear or through medical screening or regular check ups with your physician. Neither of these lead to a definitive diagnosis however, so if any signs of cancer are detected you will usually require the opinion of a pathologist or oncologist, which are types of physicians who specialize in the diagnosis of cancer and other similar diseases.
People with suspected cancer are investigated with medical tests. These commonly include blood tests that can include X-rays, CT scans and endoscopy.
It can be daunting to go through these tests, but I urge you not to avoid them. Early detection is one of the most important factors regarding this disease. Even a few months early detection can make a huge difference to your ability to recover from this illness.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
Most cancers are initially recognized either because signs or symptoms appear or through medical screening or regular check ups with your physician. Neither of these lead to a definitive diagnosis however, so if any signs of cancer are detected you will usually require the opinion of a pathologist or oncologist, which are types of physicians who specialize in the diagnosis of cancer and other similar diseases.
People with suspected cancer are investigated with medical tests. These commonly include blood tests that can include X-rays, CT scans and endoscopy.
It can be daunting to go through these tests, but I urge you not to avoid them. Early detection is one of the most important factors regarding this disease. Even a few months early detection can make a huge difference to your ability to recover from this illness.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
What Is Cancer?
Since I am a firm believer that knowledge is power, I'm going to go through a little bit of the description of what cancer actually is. Education in this dreaded disease is a good way to try and reduce the damage it can wreak upon your life.
Cancer (or in medical talk: malignant neoplasm) is a class of diseases in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth, and sometimes metastasis (which means that it spreads to other locations in the body via lymph or blood). These properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which do not invade or metastasize. Most cancers form a tumor but some, like leukemia, do not.
Cancer affects people at all ages with the risk for most types increasing with age.
Cancers are caused by abnormalities in the genetic material of the transformed cells. These abnormalities may be due to the effects of carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, asbestos (as in my case unfortunately) or infectious agents. Other cancer-promoting genetic abnormalities may randomly occur through errors in DNA replication, or are inherited, and thus present in all cells from birth.
All this means that cancer is a very serious, and very aggressive illness. It is still onle of the last medical conditions that science is fighting for a way to counteract.
I hope this has been of some help. Remember: if you are going though a situation like mine, learning all you can about this disease is an excellent first step toward combating it.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
Cancer (or in medical talk: malignant neoplasm) is a class of diseases in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth, and sometimes metastasis (which means that it spreads to other locations in the body via lymph or blood). These properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which do not invade or metastasize. Most cancers form a tumor but some, like leukemia, do not.
Cancer affects people at all ages with the risk for most types increasing with age.
Cancers are caused by abnormalities in the genetic material of the transformed cells. These abnormalities may be due to the effects of carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, asbestos (as in my case unfortunately) or infectious agents. Other cancer-promoting genetic abnormalities may randomly occur through errors in DNA replication, or are inherited, and thus present in all cells from birth.
All this means that cancer is a very serious, and very aggressive illness. It is still onle of the last medical conditions that science is fighting for a way to counteract.
I hope this has been of some help. Remember: if you are going though a situation like mine, learning all you can about this disease is an excellent first step toward combating it.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
My Cancer Treatment
I thought I would talk a little bit about cancer treatment, just for the benefit of anyone who hasn't had to go through it themselves. I have now begun my dreaded journey to treat a disease cancer, even though many people are adamant that it is incurable. I have already had a pneumonectomy, which means that I had an operation to remove the lung that was infected. The recovery has been difficult, but with the support of my family, I am getting through it.
The other treatments that I will need to go through include radiation and chemotherapy. I know that the side effects of these are said to be most unpleasant, but at this point, there really aren’t too many options. I'm not going to willingly give in to this disease, so I continue to hope for a miracle and try not to let bitterness bring me down. I still have a lot of good things to be thankful for in this life.
I find myself thinking of which day of work it was that I finally took in one too many breaths that pushed my body over the limit and inflicted this terrible disease upon me. I try to fight these feelings, but sometimes it can be hard, knowing that a bit more knowledge about asbestos so many years ago would have had such a drastic influence on my current life.
In the end, I will struggle on. No cancer is going to take me without a fight.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
The other treatments that I will need to go through include radiation and chemotherapy. I know that the side effects of these are said to be most unpleasant, but at this point, there really aren’t too many options. I'm not going to willingly give in to this disease, so I continue to hope for a miracle and try not to let bitterness bring me down. I still have a lot of good things to be thankful for in this life.
I find myself thinking of which day of work it was that I finally took in one too many breaths that pushed my body over the limit and inflicted this terrible disease upon me. I try to fight these feelings, but sometimes it can be hard, knowing that a bit more knowledge about asbestos so many years ago would have had such a drastic influence on my current life.
In the end, I will struggle on. No cancer is going to take me without a fight.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
Cancer Support Group
I have always been a healthy person. I have always had a pretty easy going life. When I found out that I had cancer, telling my children was the hardest part. Knowing that I might not be around to watch my grandchildren grow up, or to see my youngest son get married, was a very difficult concept to accept.
I was about to begin the last chapter of my life... A chapter that I didn't really want to face.
After living in a state of shock, anger, and then followed by severe depression for a few weeks, I began to get through it. I realized that yes, my life was going to be much shorter than I had anticipated, but I was still alive. I began to seek out support groups for people with terminal illness. This was an unbelievable help for me.
It didn’t make having mesothelioma any easier. That part was still terrible. What the support group did do was to help me feel like I am not the only person to go through such a horrible experience.
By sharing our stories and our sources of comfort and hope, I felt a sense of being more at peace with things. For anyone who is going through a similar condition, I whole heatedly suggest that you get involved with a Cancer Support Group of some sort. It has provided me with a lot of solace.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
I was about to begin the last chapter of my life... A chapter that I didn't really want to face.
After living in a state of shock, anger, and then followed by severe depression for a few weeks, I began to get through it. I realized that yes, my life was going to be much shorter than I had anticipated, but I was still alive. I began to seek out support groups for people with terminal illness. This was an unbelievable help for me.
It didn’t make having mesothelioma any easier. That part was still terrible. What the support group did do was to help me feel like I am not the only person to go through such a horrible experience.
By sharing our stories and our sources of comfort and hope, I felt a sense of being more at peace with things. For anyone who is going through a similar condition, I whole heatedly suggest that you get involved with a Cancer Support Group of some sort. It has provided me with a lot of solace.
Best wishes,
Rhys.
My Type Of Cancer
I suffer from a pretty unusual form of cancer called Mesothelioma, which is caused by exposure to Asbestos. This articular form of cancer only strikes about 3000 Americans per year, but the effects of this terrible disease can be felt by every one of us.
I hope to share with you stories of my own, along with stories from other sufferers of cancer, so that we can draw strength from each other. One day there will be a cure for this terrible illness, but until that day, we need to keep fighting through it.
Best wishes,
Rhys
I hope to share with you stories of my own, along with stories from other sufferers of cancer, so that we can draw strength from each other. One day there will be a cure for this terrible illness, but until that day, we need to keep fighting through it.
Best wishes,
Rhys
My Cancer Story
Hi there,
My name is Rhys and I'm going through treatment for cancer. I wanted to start this blog to keep track of my progress, and also use it to post stories of hope that might inspire other cancer victims. I intend to post almost every day, and I will try to have something uplifting to say, no matter what.
Best wishes,
Rhys
My name is Rhys and I'm going through treatment for cancer. I wanted to start this blog to keep track of my progress, and also use it to post stories of hope that might inspire other cancer victims. I intend to post almost every day, and I will try to have something uplifting to say, no matter what.
Best wishes,
Rhys
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