Countless veterans are currently suffering from life-threatening illnesses that are a result of exposure to asbestos, a material that was commonly used in hundreds of military applications, products, and ships because of its resistance to fire. Veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma even qualify for special benefits from the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs.
We recently published an educational guide about pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma:
pleuralmesothelioma.com/treatment/doctors/
David Sides
Public Outreach Coordinator
Pleural Mesothelioma Center
dsides@pleuralmesothelioma.com
Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma
The earliest symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. Since the early symptoms are non-specific, it is important to recognize your personal experience with asbestos. If you know that you are at risk, then you should seek medical help as soon as possible to ensure you get the best treatment.
Treatment Options
The treatment options for pleural mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a multimodal approach that combines 2 or more approaches. Surgery is considered the best strategy if the cancer is caught in the early stages and can improve the prognosis and quality of life. Chemotherapy has also been effective for patients who are not eligible for surgery, increasing their lifespan three-fold. Radiation is also an option. It can be by itself or paired with another, and is best for symptoms of pain and discomfort.
Where to find Help?
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one, it is best to seek help as soon as possible. The Pleural Mesothelioma Center is a completely free resource and service center for people suffering from this terrible disease. They not only offer the most reliable information on everything asbestos and mesothelioma, but they also have expert Patient Advocated that work for your needs.
Their Patient Advocates can help you through the process of seeking treatment or support groups, and can answer any questions you may have. They can be contacted through their site. Please reach out if you don’t know where to turn or are seeking more information.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was prized for its resistance to heat. Companies began using asbestos in virtually anything to make their products fire-proof. Unfortunately, as the harmful effects of asbestos became known, many of these companies did not cease using it. It wasn’t until regulations were put in place in the late 1970’s, restricting the use of asbestos, that changes were made. At that point, many people were wrongfully exposed and are still paying the consequences.
Who is at most risk?
Every man and woman who served in the U.S. military prior to the 1980s may have been exposed to asbestos. The veterans most at risk of pleural mesothelioma are those who worked or lived in asbestos-contaminated conditions on a regular basis.
Anything is possible. You can be told that you have a 90-percent chance or a 50-percent chance or a 1-percent chance, but you have to believe, and you have to fight.
Lance Armstrong
