Mesothelioma is a continuing problem around the world just as it is in the United States. Asbestos was completely banned in the United Kingdom more than 15 years ago (something that still has not happened in America). Even so, the UK saw 2,535 new mesothelioma cases in 2012, an annual number that is expected to rise until 2022. As a result, in 2013 the government there instituted a program funded by the UK National Institute for Health Research that would bring together all members of the mesothelioma community to decide upon the top ten research priorities pertaining to mesothelioma.
British Researchers Ask Mesothelioma Community Which Research Topics Are Most Important
Researchers surveyed mesothelioma patients, caregivers of mesothelioma patients (both living and deceased) as well as health care professionals to learn about their concerns regarding mesothelioma diagnosis, treatment and care. They received 453 completed surveys that generally identified 52 different areas of concern.
From the initial survey, another survey was sent out, which 202 people responded to. This survey narrowed down the topics for research to 30.
The researchers then met with two mesothelioma patients, one caregiver, nine mesothelioma health professionals (including doctors, nurses and palliative care experts), and four support group representatives. In this group meeting, the top ten areas of concern for mesothelioma research in the UK were prioritized and the group winnowed down the issues from the previous list of 30 topics.
The identified areas for research reportedly included the following:
- Determining the value of immunotherapy;
- Individualizing chemotherapy regimens for each patient;
- Second-line treatment and immediate chemotherapy;
- Maximizing strategies for patient follow-up;
- Management of ascites for peritoneal mesothelioma patients; and
- Monitoring patients with pleural thickening.
Contact Waters Kraus & Paul to Learn More about Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
If you (or a loved one) have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact us by email or call us at 800.226.9880 to speak with our mesothelioma lawyers, likePeter Kraus and Leslie MacLean in our Dallas office, to learn more about how we can assist you and your family with a mesothelioma lawsuit.
