About three thousand Americans suffer from mesothelioma each year. A rare cancer, mesothelioma is characterized by a long latency period and a short life expectancy. It can take decades for mesothelioma to demonstrate symptoms in patients, but following diagnosis average patient life expectancy is eighteen months.
There are mesothelioma treatments available, which directly fight the cancer. These include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Many patients are also turning to palliative care to manage the pain and quality of life for the time they have left.
Following a diagnosis of mesothelioma at age 54, one man is facing the realities of his case with unexpected selflessness. Richard Mosca decided that his time would be spent advocating for others suffering from mesothelioma and similar illnesses. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation nominated Mosca to evaluate potential research projects.
Now, Mosca works with other patients, survivors and family members of those affected by military related illnesses and injuries on the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP). The PRMRP is made possible through Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs of the Department of Defense (DoD). The DoD’s vision to “find and fund the best research to eradicate diseases and support the warfighter for the benefit of the American public,” is in accord with Mosca’s personal goals for his time as a reviewer.
Mesothelioma and other respiratory illnesses caused by asbestos have been associated with military service for years. Asbestos was heavily used from the 1940s to 1970s in ship building, munitions manufacturing and as a fire deterrent in military facilities. It is closely tied to naval ships in engine and boiler room components such as valves, pumps and gaskets. About one third of mesothelioma cases are found in naval servicemen and women.
Asbestos is considered non-threatening when contained inside other materials. Dangerous if inhaled, asbestos fibers become a health risk if airborne. The Environmental Protection Agency began regulating the use and removal processes of asbestos in the 1980s, defined in the Clean Air Act. Mesothelioma has such a long latency period though, that many believe the peak of mesothelioma cases has yet to be seen.
The PRMRP is committed to benefiting health and quality of life for military personnel, veterans and their family members. Regarding his experience as a reviewer for the program, Mosca said, “many brilliant people out there wanting to help the mesothelioma community – compassionate and understanding medical professionals dedicated to treating and curing mesothelioma.”
This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 4th, 2011 at 9:32 AM and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.
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