Rare Lung Cancer is Leaving a Sorrowful Legacy Among the Working Class

Mesothelioma, often misdiagnosed for pneumonia initially, is a rare cancer suffered mainly by workers such as those exposed to asbestos. By the time it is detected, few patients live longer than a year, but the new drug Alimta (Eli Lilly) is offering new hope.

In a recent trial involving more than 448 patients in more than 30 countries, the drug was shown to shrink tumours in more than 46% of patients.

Inhaling just one hook-shaped asbestos fibre can trigger the development of lung cancer in some people, a process that may take up to 30 years. The collapse of the World Trade Centre on September 11th 2001 exposed thousands of people to up to 10 tons of asbestos dust. The drug may also be used as a preventative treatment in time.

(Source: Post Gazette Health & Science)