Treatment for Asbestos-Related Cancer

A rare type of cancer is associated with exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a substance that has been shown to be carcinogenic and may place persons at risk for this condition after exposure for only a few weeks. A long period of time, for example 35 to 40 years, typically transpires between the time of initial exposure and development of malignant tumors. This condition involves the mesothelium, which is the cells lining an organ. Organs affected by this condition include the lungs, abdominal organs, and the heart. Cancer of the mesothelium is called mesothelioma. Early symptoms may be similar to those observed with pneumonia and can include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest and abdominal pain.

Although the survival rate for mesothelioma typically ranges from 4 to 12 months from the time of symptom onset, it is possible for persons affected by this condition to live for much longer. Available treatments for this condition include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. The preferred treatment is a combination of the chemotherapy medications pemetrexed (Alimta) and cisplatin. Folic acid and vitamin B12 must also be used with pemetrexed since this medication interferes with their normal metabolism. A combination of cisplatin and carboplatin may also be used.