Louisville residents should know that mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer often found in those who have been exposed to asbestos over a long period of time. In May of 2019, the Food and Drug Administration approved of the first new treatment for mesothelioma in 15 years.
Jury holds J&J responsible in mesothelioma case
While many Louisville residents may think only of longtime workers in the asbestos industry when they consider the rare cancer called mesothelioma, one recent verdict points to a far more common risk. Johnson & Johnson, the large pharmaceutical and personal-care products corporation, was ordered to pay $25 million to one woman who sued the company after developing mesothelioma. She said that the malignancy was caused by her daily use of talc-based products produced by the company, particularly J&J Baby Powder and Shower to Shower.
EPA's stricter stance on asbestos could help sickened workers
For decades, asbestos was used in a wide range of industrial products and even consumer goods. Manufacturers added asbestos to products like brake pads on vehicles and the insulation used in homes. However, over time, it became obvious that asbestos was unsafe for those who had to mine it, and work with it in a professional capacity.
Many elderly mesothelioma patients die without treatment
Mesothelioma specialists have conducted a study that may be of interest to those in Louisville who know someone with this cancer. Results of the study have been published in the Annals of Surgical Oncology revealing that many mesothelioma patients 80 years and older are dying without receiving any cancer-related treatments. These treatments could have increased the median survival rate, which came to only 4.1 months.
How radiotherapy may extend the life of mesothelioma patients
The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology held its annual ESTRO 38 conference, during which a study was presented that may intrigue mesothelioma patients in Louisville. The study found that radiotherapy, which has been used to control the symptoms of mesothelioma, may actually do much more that is positive for patients.
Mesothelioma risk persists long after asbestos exposure
Workers in Louisville who were exposed to asbestos continue to suffer a risk for mesothelioma that does not decline despite stopping the exposure. In many cases, ending exposure to a carcinogen lowers the risk of a cancer diagnosis, as in the case of quitting smoking. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is generally caused by asbestos exposure. In most cases, it is linked to exposure in the workplace. Because the mineral was not flammable, did not corrode and provided strong insulation, it was mined and used in pipes, insulation and a range of industrial activities.
Certain workers are more at risk for mesothelioma
Those who work in blue-collar careers, such as manufacturing or construction, typically do so because they want to earn a decent wage to support themselves and their families. Most people understand that there are certain risks with their job, and they will try to keep themselves safe. Unfortunately, certain workers unknowingly incur significant risks while attempting to perform their jobs.
