Topic: Asbestos

The housing options offered to mesothelioma patients is one of the most helpful avenues of support provided by the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is overwhelming enough, but worrying about where to seek treatment and where to stay while undergoing treatment only add to the stress these patients face.  Treatments can last weeks sometimes months and hotel bills can get very costly.  The IMP has made it a part of its mission to provide a solution to this problem for its patients.

“The House”

Across the street from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts is a triple decker house located at 48 Francis Street. Mesothelioma patients and their families commonly refer to it as “The House.”  The House which is owned by the hospital opened its doors in 2008.  The families of mesothelioma patients who are undergoing treatment can stay at the House for a small per night donation.

The House has three floors. The second and third floors can accommodate up to three families; the first floor up to two families.  The families share a comfortable living room, fully equipped kitchen, and back deck area.  Each family has their own fully furnished private bedroom.  Having the shared living spaces provides families with an area where they can congregate at the end of the day to share stories, talk or just silently support one another.

One of my clients who received his mesothelioma treatment at the IMP stayed at the House for three weeks during his surgery, treatment, and recovery.  He and his wife described the House as “their home away from home.”  They found the House to be very comfortable and convenient.  My client’s wife especially appreciated being able to get together with the other wives at the end of a long day.

I had the pleasure of visiting the House a number of times.  I was very impressed.  The House is a beautiful home for patients and their families who have to travel from far away for treatment.

Support System for Families and Patients

While staying at the House, families and patients have a chance to connect with others who are going through the same experiences and emotions.  Families and patients provide one another with support, encouragement, hope and comfort.

Families have the opportunity to gather at the end of the day, eat meals together, share stories or just relax.  My client and his wife became very close with the families with whom they shared the House.

Mesothelioma is a unique cancer and treatment can be strenuous.  Being surrounded by people who can relate to their experiences provides a special kind of support that patients and their families cannot find elsewhere.

The team members of the IMP are also a part of the support offered at the House.  Doctors, nurses, chaplains, social workers, and counselors are always available to cross Francis Street and tend to the needs of their patients and loved ones.

Not Just a House

The House at the IMP is not simply a house but it is a home, shelter and haven for mesothelioma patients and their families.  The House provides care, support and respite for patients and their caregivers.

For reservations, contact social worker Charlene Haouiliya at (617) 732-5500, ext. 32819.

Mesothelioma is a very serious and aggressive disease which is why patients must focus on their treatment as their top priority.  However, it is also important to remember that once treatment at the hospital has ended, it will be family or friends that will become the primary caregiver for the patient.  These caregivers need to be armed with the right tools to not only care for the patient but to care for themselves.  At the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, they have developed many programs over the years to aid in support for caregivers.  Dr. Sugarbaker, Director of the IMP, and his team know that once the mesothelioma patient is discharged from the hospital, the caregiver is on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week to make sure their loved ones’ needs are taken care of.

IMP Support Groups

The IMP has created Support Groups to help patients’ families and caregivers.  The meetings give families and caregivers a chance to share their stories with others who are dealing with the same issues.  Many often feel that their own circle of friends and family does not understand what they are going through.  The Support Group meetings at the IMP allow caregivers to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.

One of my client’s whose husband was treated at the IMP for his mesothelioma attended these Support Groups.  She found them extremely helpful and it gave her time to reflect and discuss the events of the week.  She enjoyed and needed the camaraderie and compassion she received from the Support Group meetings.

Recommendations for the Mesothelioma Caregiver

Caregivers are encouraged to ask questions of the medical team and social workers.  It is suggested that they bring a journal to doctor’s appointment and meetings with medical staff and take notes of important information and any prescriptions or medical advice.  The process of mesothelioma treatment can often feel like a whirlwind.  Keeping a journal will enable caregivers to recall later what was discussed at meetings and appointments.

Family and caregiver Support Groups at the IMP are valuable and inspiring for patients and caregivers.  However, keep in mind when talking to other families that each patient is different in their type of mesothelioma, how they are being treated and how they are reacting to treatment.  While one treatment may be right for one patient, it may not be right for another.

The IMP provides wonderful support for the mesothelioma patient as well as their family and caregiver.  The IMP takes great care to not only treat the disease but to treat the whole mesothelioma patient physically and mentally.

Throughout the many decades I have been representing clients with mesothelioma, I have observed the many aspects to this devastating disease and how it effect each person involved differently.  I commend the IMP for the support they provide to mesothelioma patients, their families and caregivers.

The New Year brings new and hopeful discoveries in the field of cancer research.  I recently read about a revolutionary discovery that will allow scientists to compare the differences between normal cells and cancer cells. Up until now, this could not be done because researchers weren’t able to keep normal cells taken from patients alive, even though they could keep tumor cells alive. New research techniques like this will enable scientists to better understand mesothelioma and other types of cancer-leading to better treatment options and ultimately cures.

Focusing Cancer Treatments on Each Patient

Previously, normal cell cultures for most organs could not be created in a lab.  This made it impossible for researchers to directly compare normal cells and cancerous tumor cells.  Being able to study these cells side by side will provide oncologists with the ability to find the right treatments for each individual and spare normal cells from the toxicity of cancer treatments.

This study will also revolutionize the work that pathologist can do.  Today, pathologist can only work with biopsies that are frozen, fixed or embedded in wax.  In the future, pathologists will be able to use the information obtained from the live cells to diagnose tumors and screen treatments for patients.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Just as each person is unique so is their mesothelioma.  A treatment that works for one patient may cause severe side effects or have no effect on another patient.  Scientists are conducting clinical trials every day to test and refine personalized cancer treatments. Research such as the recent live cell study at Georgetown University is key to being able to focus treatment on individual patients. This will bring us one step closer to finding a cure for this devastating cancer.

Cancer Research and Mesothelioma

I am constantly encouraged when I read of new discoveries being made in the field of cancer.  These discoveries are the gateway to advances in the treatment of mesothelioma.  I am looking forward to the new promise 2012 brings to the cure for mesothelioma and other cancers.

Dr. Michele Carbone, the Director of the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center, chaired the Third Annual Translational Cancer Medicine Symposium on December 2, 2011 hosted by the University of Hawai‘i and Queens Medical Center.  The focus of this year’s discussion was the recent discovery of the BAP1 gene mutation which has been linked to mesothelioma and other cancers.  I was very interested to learn firsthand from the many world renowned physicians and researchers in attendance about the cutting edge research being done in the field of mesothelioma.

Dr. Carbone and his team of researchers announced their discovery of the BAP1 gene mutation back in August.  This remarkable discovery is the first step in understanding how the BAP1 gene affects those at risk of developing mesothelioma.  This discovery will lead to new genetic therapies and treatments for this devastating cancer.

Carbone was Joined by Other Mesothelioma Researchers

Dr. Carbone was joined by other notable mesothelioma researchers, surgeons and scientists from across the world, some of whom were Dr. Joseph R.Testa of the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia and Dr. Harvey A. Pass, a thoracic surgeon at NYU Langone Medical Center.  Dr. Harvey Pass who has been operating on mesothelioma patients for several decades stressed the critical importance of early detection of the disease mesothelioma. Also making presentations were members of Dr. Carbone’s Hawai’i team – Dr. Giovanni Gaudino as well as Dr. Haining Yang.

Collaboration Among Mesothelioma Researchers and Physicians

The role of researchers and physicians in the medical world vary greatly.  Researchers focus on the science of new treatments and cures while physician focus on the patient.  However, researchers and physicians have the same goal in mind, new and better treatments and cures for devastating diseases like mesothelioma. When researchers and physician collaborate and share information it can lead to innovative new treatments and a better understanding of diseases.  Collaboration and open discussion will no doubt translate into positive medical benefits for the future.

Dr. Carbone’s mesothelioma-melanoma symposium encouraged lively discussion and exchange among researchers and physicians.  It was truly wonderful to witness scientists working together with clinical physicians for the betterment of patients diagnosed with horrific cancers such as mesothelioma.  It is forums like this that will someday lead to a cure for mesothelioma.

December 7, 2011 will mark the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the lives that were lost that fateful day, as well as the sacrifices made in the following years as World War II raged on.

For over 30 years I have been representing workers who contracted mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos in their workplace.  The first mesothelioma victim that I represented in 1978 had worked as an electrician at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Over the years, I have represented thousands of people with asbestos-related diseases who had worked at Pearl Harbor.

In the early 1980’s many of my clients had worked at Pearl Harbor during World War II as part of a national effort to rebuild and maintain the US fleet after the tragic attack at this very shipyard. Because of their work, they were exposed to asbestos dust. Unaware of the deadly hazard this posed, they breathed this dust and some workers decades later contracted mesothelioma, a lung cancer caused only by asbestos.

Whenever I think of these former World War II Pearl Harbor workers, I am reminded of the sacrifice they made. They contributed to the same war effort as those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941. And sadly, they met the same fate as the 2,403 victims of the Pearl Harbor attack.

Tomorrow I will remember all of the victims of Pearl Harbor.

As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving holiday, it is a time to reflect on all that we are thankful for.  I am extremely thankful to be surrounded by wonderful people in my life and to have met many special clients through my work as a mesothelioma attorney.

When I think of my clients, I am especially grateful to all of the doctors and researchers who are working everyday to find a cure for this devastating cancer.  I have written many articles on the new and exciting medical and scientific advances that are on-going in the search for new treatments, and hopefully a cure, for mesothelioma and many other cancers.  I am continually astounded by the hard work, dedication, and creativity of these doctors and researchers.

It is their unrelenting determination that will someday lead to a cure for mesothelioma. I am thankful for their efforts and will be eternally grateful when this disease is finally cured.

Throughout the many decades that I have been representing clients with mesothelioma, I have seen many significant advancements in the field of cancer and mesothelioma research.  Most recently I read about a new therapy that has been tested in a Phase 1 clinical trial and has shown promise in the treatment of mesothelioma tumors.  Each new treatment and discovery that is made for this devastating disease takes us one step closer to someday finding a cure for mesothelioma.

A Promising New Therapy

One of the therapies used to treat cancerous tumors works by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels around the tumor thereby stopping the spread of the cancer cells.  This is called “antiangiogenic therapy.”

Despite the advances that have been made with this therapy, many tumors manage to escape this blockade.  Recently, a new study reported that targeting a novel antiangiongenic receptor may be a promising treatment for patients whose tumors do not respond to the current therapy. This finding was reported at an International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics. The American Association for Cancer Research, the National Cancer Institute and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer were all part of this international conference

The experimental therapy is called PF-03446962.  This therapy is aimed at targeting proteins in the body that grow and divide specialized cells such as the kinase 1 protein(ALK-1).  PF-03446962 is an antibody that has been developed for humans explicitly meant to stop the activity of ALK-1.

The Results of the Initial Study

Researchers tested this new therapy in a Phase 1 clinical trial which showed the treatment demonstrated anticancer activity in tumors.  Dr. Fillipo de Braud, was the director of the European Institute of Oncology when this study was conducted.  He and his colleagues tested eight different doses of PF-03446962 on 44 patients with cancerous tumors.  The patients who showed the most improvement had previously been treated with antiangiogenic therapy for lung, renal, or liver cancer.  The 2 patients who showed the longest response to this new treatment had been diagnosed with adrenocortical cancer and mesothelioma.

I am anxiously awaiting the results of more studies involving this new therapy, PF-03446962, and especially its effect on mesothelioma tumors.

Clinical Trials Offer Hope

Many of my clients suffering from mesothelioma have taken part in clinical trials. I encourage anyone who has been diagnosed mesothelioma to discuss clinical trials with their doctors to determine whether they may be a candidate for a clinical trial. Your doctor will explain the benefits and risks as they relate to your particular circumstances. There are new clinical trials taking place every day.  Clinical trials offer great hope to patients in finding new treatments and therapies for mesothelioma.  Clinical trials are also our best hope at someday finding a cure for this devastating disease.

Each year on Veterans Day I like to take time to reflect on the commitment and sacrifice of our men and women who have served this great country.  Through my work as a mesothelioma attorney, I have had the honor to cross paths with many United States Navy veterans.  I have heard many stories of bravery and fortitude, long times spent away from loved ones on deployment and lost friends and mates.  I have the utmost admiration for those who have served and protected the United States during times of war or peace.

Special Bond with Submariners

Many of my clients have served their country building, repairing and serving on United States Navy’s ships and submarines.  I feel a special bond with submariners not only because my father served aboard submarines, but also because I have personally gotten to know many submariners through my work.  I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing their stories of service to our country.  The dedication and service shown by submariners has often gone unnoticed because of the need for their patrols and missions to be top secret.  There’s a reason it’s called the “silent service”. Submariners did not talk about what they did or where their subs traveled.  Stealth has always been the secret to their success enabling submariners to defend the country in wartime and to learn valuable information during peacetime to ensure peace is maintained. Veterans Day is an appropriate day to recognize them for their service.

On this Veterans Day I encourage us all to pay tribute to our veterans.  Their sacrifice and dedication to protect our freedom is invaluable.  I say thank you to all of those who have served or are currently serving for your service to this great country.

Asbestos on US Navy Submarines

The veterans who served on Navy ships and submarines knew that they would be facing certain kinds of dangers when they went off to serve their country. But one danger that was hidden from them was the deadly hazards associated with asbestos insulation that was found throughout their ships and submarines.

It is fairly well-known that asbestos was used as the primary insulation material in the construction of US Navy ships up until the mid 1970’s.  Navy destroyers and battleships, for example, contained virtually tons of asbestos products.  The most heavily insulated machinery was located in machinery spaces, although asbestos insulation was used throughout the ships. The veterans who built, maintained and served aboard these vessels were exposed to this deadly carcinogen on a daily basis.

It is not as commonly known, however, the extent to which asbestos was also used in the construction and repair of US Navy submarines.  WWII submarines were built with two diesel engines as the main driving unit.  Asbestos insulation was used on the diesel engine’s exhaust, as well as the piping throughout the submarine, typically for anti-sweat purposes.  The hot and cold machinery, fluid pipes, valves, flanges and fittings on a submarine would have been heavily insulated with asbestos pads, felt, paper and cloth.  The submariners, who lived, worked, ate, and slept in these very tight and confined spaces were continuously exposed to the dangerous asbestos that surrounded them.

US Navy Veterans and Mesothelioma

All veterans whether serving on Navy ships or submarines were exposed to asbestos and today still face the risk of contracting mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by asbestos.  Sadly, many of the veterans I have had the privilege of the representing have developed mesothelioma due to their exposure to asbestos.  The companies that produced the asbestos insulating products for the US Navy ships knew their products were hazardous, yet continued to produce these asbestos materials and failed to warn workers of the extreme dangers.

If you served in the US Navy and have developed mesothelioma due to your exposure to asbestos you may be entitled to legal compensation from these companies.  If you or a loved one served in the US Navy between 1930 and 1980 you should be aware that you may have been exposed to asbestos and it is important to see your doctor for regular checkups.

As an attorney who has represented clients suffering from mesothelioma for over 30 years, I joined the fight against asbestos long ago.  Recent events demonstrate that the fight continues.  According to an article in the Chicago Tribune, the Basel Action Network seeks to ban the export of asbestos and other hazardous materials to developing countries.  On October 21, 2011 over 170 countries agreed to accelerate the adoption of the global ban on hazardous materials.  The executive director of the Basel Action Network, Jim Puckett stated “I am ecstatic, I’ve been working on this since 1989 and it looks like it the shackles are lifted and we’ll see this happen in my lifetime.”

Asbestos is an extremely hazardous material.  I am continually stunned when I read stories that countries continue to export this deadly substance to developing countries.  My firm and I have been working hard for over 30 years to raise awareness of asbestos hazards that continue to exist even today.  We will continue to work hard until this lethal substance is no longer a threat to innocent people.

Mesothelioma Cases Increase In Developing Countries

Recent reports have indicated that asbestos-related deaths in Asia are expected to significantly increase over the next 20 years.  Asian countries continue to use large amounts of asbestos products in power plants, roofing and cement.  Currently, the use of asbestos in Asia is unregulated.  In a recent study conducted by the World Health Organization Dr. Ken Takahashi warned the Asian government to prepare for an “asbestos tsunami”.

India is also expected to experience a large increase in asbestos related deaths and diseases.  In cities such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad asbestos usage can be found in everyday life, roof tiles, broken asbestos blocks on the street, children building statues with asbestos cement.  Alang, India is known as the heart of India’s shipbreaking industry.  Ships covered in asbestos products are sent off to Alang to be dismantled.  Workers breaking apart the machinery and piping covered with asbestos insulation can be seen without masks or respirators of any kind.  The Indian government currently has no regulations or laws in place for the usage of asbestos products.

Raising Awareness about Asbestos

Spreading awareness about the dangers of asbestos is the only way to someday ban its usage.  Governments, citizens and workers in developing countries need to be made aware of their risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases due to their unregulated asbestos usage.

Through the decades I have represented clients with mesothelioma I have seen the utter devastation asbestos can cause.  Banning the export and usage of asbestos will shield people from the harm of this deadly material.