New Weblog Aims To Raise Awareness Of Deadly Form Of Lung Cancer

Main Category: Asbestos / Mesothelioma
Also Included In: IT / Internet / E-mail;  Lung Cancer
Article Date: 27 Mar 2008 - 4:00 PST

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Current statistics show 2,000-3,000 people are diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma in the U.S. each year, and 10,000 Americans die from all asbestos-related diseases, according to statistics compiled by the Environmental Working Group. Mesothelioma was not tracked as a specific cause of death by federal health officials until 1999, so actual totals for mesothelioma may be much higher.

It is the primary goal of MyMeso.org to raise awareness in the public about mesothelioma and related asbestos diseases, to provide a forum for those affected by mesothelioma, and to create a network of information and resources expanding hope for a cure. MyMeso.org is a public awareness and community outreach effort of Beasley, Allen, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer affecting the mesothelium, or the protective lining around our internal organs. It most commonly affects the linings of the lungs, abdomen and heart. Unfortunately, many symptoms of mesothelioma (shortness of breath, severe cough, chest pain) do not appear for 20 or more years, making it difficult to diagnose early. For this reason, the cancer is often diagnosed in the later stages, making it difficult for proper treatment and survival.

Mesothelioma is most strongly associated with exposure to asbestos. There are two main types - pleural, the more common form, which affects the lining of the chest; and peritoneal, affecting the lining of the abdominal cavity.

Lung cancer kills more people each year than breast, colon and prostate cancer combined, and 92 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer die from the disease. However, lung cancer research receives only a tiny percentage of potential or available funding.

"In talking with people affected by mesothelioma, we found that there was a real lack of information out there," said Scott Thomas, Director of Internet Services for Beasley Allen. "People are looking for information about the disease, its diagnosis and treatment, but beyond that they're looking for a support network. They want to hear from other people that are going through what they are, and they want to find out what they can do to make a difference - in their treatment, in bringing this illness to the forefront for research and maybe, one day, a cure."

http://www.MyMeso.org