Mesothelioma Clinical Trials
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the most deadly forms of cancer. Researchers are developing treatments that can increase a patient's life expectancy, but they have not yet found a cure. Part of the problem is that only 2,000-2,500 cases of this kind of cancer are reported each year. However, that number will rise for at least the next decade, as those who have been exposed to asbestos fibers begin to develop symptoms.
Given this increase, more effort is being put into research, including clinical trials, which test newly developed treatment methods. These trials can represent the hope of a longer lifespan while a cure is being researched.
Working Towards a Cure
While common treatments for malignant mesothelioma are similar to those used for other cancers, a number of mesothelioma clinical trials are being conducted. Currently, the National Institute of Health lists more than 40 nation-wide clinical trials for mesothelioma, one of which involves a trial of the peptide CBP501 and its potential benefit to chemotherapy treatments. It also includes a study of an oral medication known as Milataxel. For more information about current clinical trials, contact us.
Taking Part In A Clinical Trial
Mesothelioma specialists sometimes recommend that eligible patients take part in clinical trials. Patients typically take part on a voluntary basis in cancer centers, which often have the latest equipment, technology, and access to care. Doing so may not only improve the patient's life expectancy but receive care they might not have been able to get otherwise.
Of course, there's no guarantee that a trial will be successful. Plus, volunteers might have to travel long distances to a cancer center or stay there for a certain length of time.
Kinds of Clinical Trials
Generally speaking, clinical trials take three forms:
- Phase I: These small trials analyze delivery methods for treatment strategies.
- Phase II: Trials of this variety test the effectiveness of emerging drugs and procedures themselves.
- Phase III: Conducted in many cancer centers across the country, these trials are performed on a large scale and require a lot of participants. The studies compare the results of current treatment methods to emerging ones. They also involve a group that is taking a drug or undergoing a procedure and one that is not.
If you'd like to know more, please fill out our form. We'll send you a free information packet that will give you an idea of what is being done to combat mesothelioma.
