Managing Mesothelioma: Vital Tips for Older Adults and Their Caregivers

Managing Mesothelioma: Vital Tips for Older Adults and Their Caregivers

ByHolly Zink

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It most often affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), but it can also impact the lining of the abdomen, heart, or testicles. Older adults, especially those who worked in industries with high asbestos exposure, are at greater risk. A new article from the Australasian Journal on Ageing provides important information for elderly Americans and their caregivers on understanding and managing mesothelioma. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue covering most internal organs. The most common type, pleural mesothelioma, affects the tissues around the lungs. The leading cause is asbestos exposure. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they…

Mesothelioma Caregivers at Risk for Depression
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Mesothelioma Caregivers at Risk for Depression

ByHolly Zink

People who care for someone with malignant pleural mesothelioma are at risk for depression and trouble attending work. Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos. Most patients with mesothelioma are elderly and male. Treatment for mesothelioma is difficult and the five-year survival rate is poor. A MPM diagnosis is extremely difficult for a family. Both the patient and their caregivers can feel hopelessness and uncertainty. Mesothelioma Caregivers at Risk Researchers from the United Kingdom wanted to find out how taking care of someone with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) affects the person who takes care of them. The researchers wanted to know things like who the…

Meeting the Needs of Mesothelioma Patients and Caregivers
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Meeting the Needs of Mesothelioma Patients and Caregivers

ByHolly Zink

A study published earlier this year found that mesothelioma patients and their caregivers have many unmet support needs. Mesothelioma is a cancer that forms in the lining of organs like the lungs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos. Most patients with mesothelioma are elderly and male. Treatment for mesothelioma is difficult and the five-year survival rate is poor. A mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating for a family. Patients and their caregivers can experience hopelessness, blame, and psychological distress. They also face uncertainty around financial issues and medical concerns. The painful symptoms of mesothelioma are a huge source of stress, as well. There is not much information currently available about the psychosocial support needs of people living with mesothelioma and…