Mesothelioma Surveillance Protocols, Quality of Life, and Patient Hope
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Mesothelioma Surveillance Protocols, Quality of Life, and Patient Hope

ByHolly Zink

Mesothelioma surveillance protocols are a series of medical tests. Surveillance is designed to detect and track cancer progression. Surveillance protocols also check treatment effectiveness. And they provide patients with reassurance and hope. A new study identified the effectiveness of mesothelioma surveillance protocols. This study focused on patients who have noncurative treatment intent. Importance of Reassurance and Hope Findings from nine different studies identified the need for reassurance and hope as part of surveillance. They also highlighted the importance of trust and relationships. Follow-up and surveillance models provide patients with continuity, reassurance, and updates on condition. Continuity ensured patients knew who to contact if they had a new symptom or concern. Patient hopes for follow-up were for management of pain and…

Follow-Up Care for Mesothelioma: What Happens After Treatment?
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Follow-Up Care for Mesothelioma: What Happens After Treatment?

ByAlex Strauss

A new UK study on follow-up care for mesothelioma finds that patients need more continuity, timely information, and more input from their caregivers.  The study focused on three National Health Service facilities in the South of England. Two were secondary care hospitals and the third was a tertiary care center. A tertiary care center has special, high-level expertise in mesothelioma care.  Researchers talked to patients, nurses, caregivers, and members of practice groups called clinical commissioning groups. They used the feedback to develop the UK’s first set of best practices for follow-up care for mesothelioma. They now plan to share these best practices with clinicians across the country to improve after-care for all mesothelioma patients.  The Importance of Follow-Up Care for…