A new drug that can increase survival rates and average survival of cancer patients! Seems futuristic, right? Well, researchers at the Queen Mary University London have found a new drug that can work against a difficult-to-treat and aggressive form of cancer, mesothelioma. The findings of the study have been published in JAMA Oncology.
Mesothelioma cancer is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells lining the body's internal organs, most commonly the lungs and chest wall. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, often occurring in occupational settings such as construction, mining, and manufacturing. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss, with diagnosis often occurring at advanced stages due to the disease's long latency period. Treatment options typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, though prognosis remains generally poor due to the disease's aggressive nature and limited treatment effectiveness.