November 3rd, 2004

Following the first ever Mesothelioma Symposium in Las Vegas earlier this month, patients, support groups and professionals have expressed their delight at what seems to be much needed and long awaited attention for this deadly form of cancer.

In the past, mesothelioma research has been severely under-funded compared to other types of cancer, and support groups have been crying out for additional education into this type of cancer. Many people don’t even know what mesothelioma is, even though it is one of deadliest forms of cancer with little to no chance of long term survival for those that contract the malignant form.

The mesothelioma symposium was a three-day event attended by a wide cross section of people, from patients and their families to experts and politicians. It is hoped that the talks will result in increased funding, education and support as well as increased public awareness of the cause and effects of mesothelioma.

This form of cancer is the result of exposure to asbestos fibers, and can affect various parts of the body such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart, from where is can spread. It can take several decades to actually detect the cancer following exposure to asbestos, and this cancer can shorten the life span of a patient to a matter of months. There is no long term treatment or cure, but it is hoped that increased funding, education and awareness will help to find the miracle that can one day cure this deadly disease