Pic 1
Pic 2

Pic 3
Pic 4
Pic 5

Epidemiology is the study of factors that affect the health and illness of populations. Essentially, the epidemiology of the disease is a summary of who gets the disease, where, when and why they contract it and what happens after they get the disease. Thus, an epidemiologic summary of a disease is typically specified by some age and time trends, sex and geographic differences in incidence, mortality and prevalence, as well as the natural history of the disease (including etiology, efficacy of treatments and sometimes avenues for prevention).

Mesothelioma Incidence

Mesothelioma occurs more commonly in men than women, not because they are more susceptible, but rather because of their employment in occupations known for asbestos exposure (the leading cause of malignant mesothelioma). Both sexes are typically diagnosed in their 60s or 70s. The mesothelioma death rate for the United States ranges between 2,000 and 3,000 persons a year.
Geographic trends in mesothelioma epidemiology often coincide with naturally occurring deposits of asbestos (especially if mining occurred in the area), as well as industrial and commercial areas where asbestos was processed and made into products. Locations that are popular for retirement, such as the state of Florida, can exhibit increased rates of mesothelioma since the disease onsets late in life.

Mesothelioma Etiology

Research in mesothelioma etiology, the causation of the disease, shows that asbestos exposure accounts for approximately 80 percent of all mesothelioma cases. Other risk factors include exposure to radiation, nonasbestos mineral fibers, and simian virus 40. Additional potential risk factors that are not well-researched include chronic inflammation, genetics, chest injuries and organic chemicals.

Treatment and Prevention

Due to a long latency period and the tendency for symptoms to arise in late stages of mesothelioma development, some mesothelioma patients receive treatment of a palliative nature rather than curative, as there is no established cure for this cancer. Mesothelioma treatments typically involve chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, but this depends upon each patient, stage of cancer development, and whether the cancer has spread. Some patients opt to participate in mesothelioma clinical trials or employ complimentary alternative therapies, such as massage, acupuncture or yoga. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and would like to learn more about available treatment options, clinical trials or mesothelioma survivors, please fill out this form to receive an informative packet in the mail.
Because approximately 80 percent of mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure, the best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to this toxic mineral. If you have experienced substantial or occupational exposure to asbestos, you should have regular checkups, preferably by a doctor familiar with asbestos-related diseases, to stay on top of any biological changes that may indicate the development of disease. It is also very important to abstain from smoking cigarettes and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle fueled by proper nutrition that can help to prevent the development of cancer and disease.
Sources:

1. Pass, I., Vogelzang, N., Carbone, M. Malignant Mesothelioma: Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Transitional Therapies. Springer: New York. 2005.
2. Chahinian, A., Robinson, B. Mesothelioma. Martin Dunitz: London. 2002.
3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11836665
4. http://www.erj.ersjournals.com/cgi/content/abstract/9/9/1932