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"I Have Mesothelioma."

A diagnosis of Mesothelioma is shocking and frightening. You need to get the best information you can, as fast as you can.

Start by ordering a Free Mesothelioma
Information Packet

Each packet contains information that will

  • Help you find the best medical care in your area
  • Discuss the latest Mesothelioma treatment options
  • Give you details on all the resources available to help you
    and your family

Just fill out the form or give us a call at 1-800-861-1625 and we will rush the information packet to you.

Get the Information You Need

"I was truly lost and did not know which way to go when I was diagnosed. Thankfully, your organization came to my rescue. The full information packet as well as DVD's have helped me and my family understand this terrible cancer. I searched the net looking for more information about this cancer, but you had done all of the leg work." – Doug D

"Thank-you thank-you, thank-you. You can't imagine how scared we were coming back home from the doctor's office. Your information packet, DVD's, and support staff helped us more than you can imagine. We are still dealing with the diagnosis and treatment– but at least we have answers to our questions and know what we need to do." – Ruth Roberts

"The Doctor Said it's Mesothelioma"

Hearing those words from a loved one can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life ' especially if the person feels healthy and strong.

While you've probably seen ads featuring mesothelioma patients, you had little reason to pay attention to them then. But now you're in shock, and you're not even sure you know which questions to ask.

This site is a good place to begin, because everything you need to know about mesothelioma is in one convenient place.

It's a form of cancer that develops in the protective lining of the chest (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and heart (pericardium). The most common form strikes the pleura and peritoneum.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

Unlike most other cancers, mesothelioma is almost always caused by actual asbestos fibers that have been inhaled into the lungs. (Asbestos was a common fire retardant and insulation material in use until the 1970s.)

The fibers lodge in the mesothelial cells around the lung and travel into the lining of the chest or abdomen, eventually causing cancer. It's a disease mostly of men — particularly those who worked in the engine rooms of ships, or in roofing and construction. Even though they were exposed to asbestos 20 or even 50 years ago, they are still at risk for mesothelioma.

How is it Diagnosed?

In the early stages, many people have no symptoms at all. If there are symptoms, they usually include shortness of breath or chest pains — which can be easily confused with other diseases such as asthma or pneumonia. Often, the disease is discovered during a routine chest x-ray. This is why a diagnosis can come as such a shock to the victim and his or her family.

What is the Prognosis?

At this time, there is no cure for mesothelioma. There are four main "stages" of the disease, measured by X-rays, CAT scans, and MRIs. The stage, along with the location of the tumors tells your doctor how far the cancer has progressed, and helps determine the appropriate treatment program.

What Can the Family Do?

First, order the FREE guide to Mesothelioma (form on the right). It will give you information on the latest research, treatment options, and financial assistance.

You can also explore this site to learn more about mesothelioma. Your loved one will need a strong family and social network as well as expert medical and professional assistance. Support groups may also help you deal with your emotions and give you the strength to help the patient.

Next Steps

In addition to learning all you can, you need the support of professionals who can guide you through this frightening time. There is so much involved once a diagnosis of mesothelioma has been made that going it alone is not a good option.

These are just some of the things you'll learn in our free Guide to Mesothelioma:

  • Mesothelioma Specialists: You'll find many specialists in areas with university teaching and research facilities, where research and clinical trials to find new treatments are being conducted. Veterans Administration hospitals also have specialists trained in mesothelioma, and may be a good resource if your loved one was exposed to asbestos in the military
  • Pain Management There are more options than ever for pain management and palliative care, which are helping many mesothelioma patients better cope with the impact of pain.
  • Legal Assistance At some point your loved one may need assistance with medical bills, prescriptions, and other aspects of care. Asbestos manufacturers may be financially accountable to victims and their families, but each state has its own rules and statutes of limitations for filing a claim. You should consider your position and seek assistance as soon as possible after the diagnosis has been made.