A generic mutation has been found by scientists which may cause a higher susceptibility in the development of mesothelioma. Two American families has been analyzed who demonstrated high incidences of mesothelioma and other type of cancers which has a connection with cases of the generic mutation. The study focused on the gene known as BAP1.
Nature Genetics published this study on August 28th 2011 and it shows some insight into why some people who are exposed to asbestos develop mesothelioma while others don’t. The implications of this study may be tremendous because approximately 2,000 and 3,000 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year.
The linings of the lungs and other organs are affected by Mesothelioma. Exposure to asbestos has long been linked to the development of this aggressive form of cancer. Still there is no cure for Mesothelioma and people have a life expectancy of 4 to eight months in general.
Scientists included researchers from the Fox Chase Cancer Center and the University of Hawaii Cancer Center with funds from the National Cancer Institute.
The study provided insight into potential links between the generic mutation of the BAP1 gene and other health concerns. The scientists came to the conclusion that this mutation may also lead to more incidences of other types of cancer such as breast, ovarian, pancreatic and renal cancers.
Both asbestos and erionite, known carcinogens, are mineral fibers that are found in various rock forms all over the world. Exposure of both minerals typically occurs through occupational settings, where individuals constantly work around asbestos, or in environmental settings, where individuals are regularly exposed to it through homes, buildings, products and roadways.
With this research one day it will be possible to utilize preventative measures or receive an early diagnosis for all of the related types of cancers which may lead to better opportunities for the patient.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Friday, September 2, 2011
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, more precisely malignant mesothelioma, is a rare form of cancer that develops from the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs, the mesothelium. The disease is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos fibers.
Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways. Mesothelioma is a highly aggressive form of cancer that is usually resistant to standard cancer treatments.
Most mesothelioma patients may not even realize they have cancer until symptoms start to interfere with their daily lives. Symptoms generally don’t appear until at least 20 years after someone was exposed to asbestos, and sometimes symptoms are hidden for as long as 50 years.
Unlike lung cancer, there is no association between mesothelioma and smoking, but smoking greatly increases the risk of other asbestos-induced cancers.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma, various clinical trials are studying the disease and several cases of remission have been reported. In addition, treatments are available that are effective at easing pain, suffering and symptoms, extending life expectancy and generally improving a patient’s quality of life.
Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways. Mesothelioma is a highly aggressive form of cancer that is usually resistant to standard cancer treatments.
Most mesothelioma patients may not even realize they have cancer until symptoms start to interfere with their daily lives. Symptoms generally don’t appear until at least 20 years after someone was exposed to asbestos, and sometimes symptoms are hidden for as long as 50 years.
Unlike lung cancer, there is no association between mesothelioma and smoking, but smoking greatly increases the risk of other asbestos-induced cancers.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma, various clinical trials are studying the disease and several cases of remission have been reported. In addition, treatments are available that are effective at easing pain, suffering and symptoms, extending life expectancy and generally improving a patient’s quality of life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)