Abstract
Dear Editor:
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that is difficult to treat and diagnose. The average survival rate is one year after diagnosis, despite maximal medical management. 1
Mesothelioma is a relatively rare disease. In contrast to other cancers that occur in the chest, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos; the majority of patients diagnosed with this cancer were occupationally exposed—many times, without their knowledge—until symptoms surface decades later. They may have also witnessed co-workers die of the same disease.2,3
The family caregivers are also stressed and vulnerable to the strain of caring. Because of the lack of specialists near home, many families may move closer to a treatment facility. If legal proceedings are pursued, this adds additional stress.
Putting patients and families in touch with web-based resources and information may help them feel less alone and abandoned.