Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the thin membranes and lining that surround the lungs, heart or abdominal cavity. People who have had exposure to asbestos sometimes develop this disease. It can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years after exposure to display symptoms. There is presently no cure.  However, doctors have developed effective treatments that can help ease symptoms and slow the progression of the cancer.

PEITC and Cisplatin — Potential new mesothelioma treatment

Scientists are researching the therapeutic benefits of Phenethyl Isothiocyanate (PEITC), which is an anti-cancer compound that comes from various types of vegetables such as:

• Arugula
• Bok choy
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Cabbage
• Brussels sprouts
• Collard greens
• Kale
• Watercress

This new study published in the medical journal, Oncotarget, confirms that PEITC, when paired with the chemotherapy drug cisplatin, is a powerful combination for fighting cancer. They kill mesothelioma cells, they are safe for healthy cells and they have fewer side effects than the standard chemotherapy.

Acetic acid — potential mesothelioma treatment

A potential new breakthrough in mesothelioma treatment was published in the National Institutes of Health that acetic acid induces cell death. The conclusion of the study states that acetic acid is a powerful anti-cancer agent. Scientists applied acetic acid to rat gastric epithelial cell lines and human mesothelioma cancer cell lines, and the acetic acid promptly killed the cancerous cells.

Scientists will continue to study how acetic acid kills mesothelioma cells, and further trials will be conducted using animal models and then humans studies can commence.

These two developments represent just a fraction of the exciting work that is going on in laboratories all over the world as scientists work to find more effective treatments, and ultimately a cure, for mesothelioma and other lung diseases and cancers.

If you or someone you know is suffering from mesothelioma as the result of asbestos exposure, you can take action today. Contact a Philadelphia asbestos lawyer at NASS CANCELLIERE today to learn more about your options.