Scientists from the UK are with the experimental therapy called 'Trojan horse' completely remove cancer from a mouse.
Scientists cancer cells have invaded from the tens of thousands of viruses that have come through the immune system to the tumor.
Using viruses to kill cancer cells is a new branch in tumor therapy, and one of the challenges is to get deep inside the tumor viruses so that they can act.
Researchers their study, published in the journal Cancer Research, rated this as 'exciting', but still need to do testing on humans.
After a 40-day 'Trojan horse' therapy, all mice that were used in the experiment were alive and their tumor was withdrawn.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Mesothelioma Treatment - Dr. William Smythe
Dr. William R. Smythe is currently the chairman of surgery at the Texas A and M Health Science Center College of Medicine, and also chairman of the department of surgery at Scott and White Memorial Hospital. Dr. William Smythe holds the Glen and Rita K. Roney endowed chair in surgery and is a professor of cellular and molecular medicine for the medical school.
He is certified by both the American Board of Thoracic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and he has received a number of awards.
In this video he discusses the treatment options and symptoms for patients with mesothelioma cancer. Dr. Smythe gives practical advice to mesothelioma patients for finding the right physician after being diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer. He also speaks about his research interests in asbestos mesothelioma cancer and new trends he believes will emerge in the cancer field in the future.
Source: New Cancer Mentality You Tube Channel
Related posts:
1. Dr. Harvey Pass - What is Mesothelioma? - 22 min
2. Genetics and Mesothelioma: Dr. Michele Carbone - 4 min
3. Interview with Dr. Raja Flores (2011 ADAO) - 14 min
4. Raja Flores, MD - Pleural Mesothelioma - 26 min
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Boston Mesothelioma Attorney
Choosing a experienced and proven Boston Mesothelioma Attorney to handle your mesothelioma lawsuit is an important decision and requires serious consideration before a decision on the right lawyer is made. The natural tendency will be to go to a good known attorney rather than to someone you do not know. But if that attorney is not specifically equipped to handle mesothelioma case, in spite of the best of intentions it's likely the case may be lost. It's better to get advice from known lawyers to ascertain who will be the experienced mesothelioma attorney to handle your case. We find for you some of proven Boston Mesothelioma law firm's.
Boston Mesothelioma Law Firms and Attorneys
Coady Law Firm
205 Portland Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02114
Toll Free: (888) 802-6376
Phone: (617) 742-9510
Fax: (617) 742-9509
Website:
Coady Law Firm
Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Glassman LLC
1 Beacon Street, Suite 3333
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
Toll Free: (888) 367-2900
Phone: (617) 367-2900
Phone: (617) 224-0777
Fax: (617) 722-9999
Thornton & Naumes LLP
100 Summer Street, 30th Floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Toll Free: (888) 632-0108
Fax: (617) 720-2445
Mesothelioma Attorneys - The Law Firm of Simmons Browder Gianaris Angelides & Barnerd LLC
The mesothelioma attorneys at the Simmons Browder Gianaris Angelides & Barnerd LLC law firm have helped over 2,000 families affected by mesothelioma cancer & asbestos exposure and they have been working with mesothelioma victims for a decade. They are also very dedicated to supporting the patient education, the scientific and medical communities in the search for a cure for asbestos mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma attorneys at Simmons Browder Gianaris Angelides & Barnerd LLC law firm provide a free consultation to malignant mesothelioma victims resulting from asbestos exposure and they represent clients across the U.S.
Find the Right Mesothelioma Attorney
Attorneys at the mesothelioma law firm of Levy Phillips & Konigsberg, LLP, share with you questions and tips that mesothelioma cancer patients and their family should use to find the right and experienced mesothelioma attorneys, who would be willing and able to fight for the maximum mesothelioma compensation for them.
Mesothelioma attorneys at the LPK law firm have won many asbestos mesothelioma lawsuits recovering hundreds of millions of dollars. They provides free initial consultation to mesothelioma patients resulting from asbestos exposure.
At Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP law firm you can also receive a free mesothelioma consultation. While they have offices in New Jersey and New York, its attorneys have represented asbestos mesothelioma clients across the U.S.
Video source: MesotheliomaTV YouTube
Mesothelioma attorneys at the LPK law firm have won many asbestos mesothelioma lawsuits recovering hundreds of millions of dollars. They provides free initial consultation to mesothelioma patients resulting from asbestos exposure.
At Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP law firm you can also receive a free mesothelioma consultation. While they have offices in New Jersey and New York, its attorneys have represented asbestos mesothelioma clients across the U.S.
New York Mesothelioma Attorneys Make a Legal Victory
Mesothelioma attorneys at the law firm of Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP, make a legal victory for the U.S. Navy veteran family's. At the same time, they protected the rights of Navy veterans nationwide affected by asbestos diseases, like mesothelioma cancer. The win came when two large military contractors, General Electric and Westinghouse Corporation filed a first of its kind motion asking a federal court to dismiss a asbestos claim of a Navy veteran before any evidence may even be presented.
If you have malignant mesothelioma or another asbestos related disease, and if you are thinking about making a mesothelioma lawsuit then you need experienced lawyer. Before you make this decision, you should contact several lawyer or law firms to gather some comparative information. You can find mesothelioma attorneys by state in our attorneys directory or you can read some of profiles of proven and experienced mesothelioma attorneys.
Video source: MesotheliomaTV YouTube
If you have malignant mesothelioma or another asbestos related disease, and if you are thinking about making a mesothelioma lawsuit then you need experienced lawyer. Before you make this decision, you should contact several lawyer or law firms to gather some comparative information. You can find mesothelioma attorneys by state in our attorneys directory or you can read some of profiles of proven and experienced mesothelioma attorneys.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Mesothelioma Attorney: Answers to Common Questions
Mesothelioma lawyer in Pennsylvania, David P. Chervenick discusses Goldberg, Persky, & White's law firm experience in mesothelioma lawsuits. In the past asbestos is used to add strength and as an insulator, but asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma cancer. See below answers to common questions.
Video Source: Goldberg, Persky & White, P.C. YouTube Channel
Video Source: Goldberg, Persky & White, P.C. YouTube Channel
Mesothelioma Survivor Praises Her Mesothelioma Attorneys
This video is a real life story from a Bonnie Anderson, a 10-year peritoneal mesothelioma cancer survivor from Linden, New Jersey. She is a client of the law firm of Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP. The doctors told her that she had less than two years to live and in this video she shares her experience dealing with the mesothelioma cancer and praise her mesothelioma attorneys.
Mesothelioma attorneys at Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP law firm provide a free initial consultation to individuals suffering from malignant mesothelioma resulting from asbestos exposure. They represent mesothelioma clients across the U.S.
Video source: MesotheliomaLawyerNY YouTube
Mesothelioma attorneys at Levy Phillips & Konigsberg LLP law firm provide a free initial consultation to individuals suffering from malignant mesothelioma resulting from asbestos exposure. They represent mesothelioma clients across the U.S.
Dr. Richard Alexander - Peritoneal Mesothelioma Research
Watch video about asbestos mesothelioma cancer research and statistics from the International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma 2008. This presentation is by Dr. Richard Alexander, internationally recognized clinical researcher and surgical oncologist. Dr. Richard Alexander treats cancer patients at the Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center and University of Maryland Marlene. In the University of Maryland Department of Surgery, he is associate chairman for clinical research's.
Video source: MesoFoundation YouTube channel
Related posts:
1. Dr. Harvey Pass - What is Mesothelioma? - 22 min
2. Genetics and Mesothelioma: Dr. Michele Carbone - 4 min
3. Interview with Dr. Raja Flores (2011 ADAO) - 14 min
4. Raja Flores, MD - Pleural Mesothelioma - 26 min
Video source: MesoFoundation YouTube channel
Related posts:
1. Dr. Harvey Pass - What is Mesothelioma? - 22 min
2. Genetics and Mesothelioma: Dr. Michele Carbone - 4 min
3. Interview with Dr. Raja Flores (2011 ADAO) - 14 min
4. Raja Flores, MD - Pleural Mesothelioma - 26 min
Friday, May 18, 2012
PR Article - America's Addiction…Could Help Cure Cancer?
That is, if 31,249 other people joined you.
With May being recognized as National Cancer Research Month, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance has launched an initiative to persuade some of America’s 100 million daily coffee drinkers to donate the cost of one cup towards cancer research; a small sacrifice as compared to the 18 billion dollars spent on specialty coffee drinks each year.
“Kick the Coffee for Cancer Research,” a week long initiative, begins on May 18th and lasts until May 26th. During this week, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance is hoping to raise $125,000 for cancer research. It may not seem like much, but a sum as low as this could help fund numerous projects, like this one by the Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center costing only $5,000. It could even cover the National Cancer Institute's requested funds for clinical trials in 2012.
With more than 570,000 Americans dying of cancer each year, the need for cancer research is paramount. By participating in MCA’s “Kick the Coffee for Cancer Research” campaign, clinical trials can be funded and research efforts can bring the medical community closer to finding a cure.
To view the full infographic and participate, please visit the Kick the Coffee for Cancer Research campaign page. All proceeds will be directly donated to the Cancer Research Institute, one of the highest rated non-profit cancer research organizations in the world.
Join the Movement! Kick Your Cup for Cancer Today!
Source:
(PRWEB)May 18, 2012
How a asbestos mesothelioma litigation attorney can help?
Each year thousands of patients diagnosed with asbestos mesothelioma cancer use the services of asbestos mesothelioma litigation attorneys to earn compensation.
Mesothelioma cancer is caused as a result of exposure to asbestos fibers and dust. Asbestos was once used extensively as a construction material around the world. Those who have worked in dock yard, shipbuilding, asbestos removal and such industries are more at risk of asbestos related diseases and particularly of malignant mesothelioma. Mesothelioma cancer symptoms may take over 20 years to develop and also are difficult to diagnose.
A attorney will help you earn compensation in asbestos cases where you or a loved one were a victim of unknowingly asbestos exposure. Over the years some mesothelioma law firms are formed and most of them have helped their clients in filing a mesothelioma lawsuit and winning compensation on behalf of the mesothelioma cancer patients and their family. There are several documentation and procedures required to establish the relation between your mesothelioma cancer and its cause and how it affected your social and personal life. Experienced asbestos mesothelioma lawyers can help you in settling the lawsuit out of court. It's the responsibility of the attorney to research and conclude how and when were you or a loved one exposed to asbestos related products. Some of mesothelioma attorneys will hire private investigators who visit each place you have mentioned and each person you worked with to research.
Some of asbestos attorneys have earned millions in compensation for their clients. We found for you some of US based mesothelioma law firms.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - part II
OVERVIEW OF ASBESTOS RELATED DISEASE
"There are several medical diseases that occur as a result of asbestos exposure. The ones of greatest concern and importance are pleural plaques and thickening; asbestosis; lung cancer; colon, laryngeal, pharyngeal cancer; and mesothelioma. For many workers, these diseases are disabling or fatal. For each disease there is a standard set of tests, and generally accepted criteria, for diagnosis.
Pleural Plaques and Thickening
Pleural plaques are also called pleural fibrosis, pleural thickening, and pleural asbestosis. A majority of persons with heavy exposure to asbestos develop pleural abnormalities. The pleura is a thin lining that surrounds the lung. Asbestos fibers that are breathed into the lung are transported to the outside of the lung and cause a scar to form in the pleural lining. When these scars reach a certain size they are visible on chest x ray as a plaque.
Most of these plaques alone do not cause disability, but they do tell us that significant exposure has occurred, and that other asbestos related diseases may be present. However, some types of plaques can cause loss of lung function. Scars that involve the costophrenic angle, the angle between the base of the lung and the diaphragm, can cause loss of lung function, as can extensive plaques on both sides of the lung.
Parenchymal Asbestosis (Pulmonary Asbestosis)
Parenchymal asbestosis is a scar formation in the substance of the lung itself. These scars can interfere with lung function, for they block the transport of oxygen from the air in the lungs into the blood vessels that travel through the lungs. Oxygen can only cross the membranes of the lung if they are thin; asbestosis causes them to thicken. As a general rule the greater the exposure the more the disease, i.e. there is a dose-response relationship between exposure and disease. However, some people seem to form scars more readily and so we see a variety of disease from the same level of exposure. These scars are visible on x ray in most cases but certainly not all cases. High resolution CT scan of the chest can find disease not seen on a plain chest x-ray, and is becoming an important component of the standard practice for the diagnosis of asbestosis. The International Labor Organization developed a way of grading chest x-rays for dust diseases of the lung. The most recent version is the1980 Classification of the Radiographic Appearance of Pneumoconioses (dust diseases of the lung). This system is accepted around the world. It provides a standard notation, so that if one reader calls a film a “1/1” another reader will know what the first reader is referring to. The classification uses a 12-point scale to define the degree, or severity, of increased lung markings. Classification of pleural changes (involvement of the membrane lining the chest wall and the lung) uses a separate scale, with specific notations made for side of the chest, whether or not the plaques contain calcium deposits, and the specific type, length, and width of the thickening of the pleura.
This 12-point scale runs from 0/- to 3/+; a “0” film is normal and a “3” film is the most severe scarring. Each reading on the scale is characterized by a number between 0 and 3, and a second number, separated by “/”. The first number, preceding the “/”, is the final number assigned to that film by that reader. The second number, following the “/”, is a qualifier. The numbers 0, 1, 2, and 3 are the main categories. An x-ray read as a category 1 film might be described as 1/0, 1/1, or 1/ 2. When the reader uses 1/1, he is rating the film as a 1, and only considered it as a 1 film. If he uses 1/0, he is saying is rating the film as a “1”, but considered calling it a “0” film before deciding it was category 1. Finally, when the reader uses 1/2, he is saying he is rating the film as a “1”, but did consider calling it a “2” film. In clinical practice, any category “1” film is abnormal; therefore a 1/0 film is consistent with asbestosis.
Even though the ILO system was designed to standardize reading x-rays for asbestosis, studies using the classification in asbestos exposed workers have found readers often disagree about classification of the same x-rays. Using the classification is somewhat of an art. Body size, weight, position of the person during the x-ray, and x-ray technique affect the amount of scarring that is visible on an x-ray. If an x-ray is less than perfect, one reader may think he can be sure scarring is present, while another cannot be sure and grades the film with a lower score for scarring.
The “best” readers agree 80% of the time with each other; 20% of the time they assign a different score to the same x-ray. If the scarring is extensive, a difference of one grade on the scale is not important. But if the x-ray shows less extensive scarring, a difference of one grade can be the difference between making diagnosis of asbestosis or deciding asbestosis is not present. For this reason experts agree that the x-ray alone should not be used to make a diagnosis of asbestosis; the examining physician should use the occupational and medical history, results of pulmonary function testing, and other medical data to reach a diagnosis. Experts also agree that asbestosis can be present in the lung even though the x-ray is normal using the ILO classification system.
High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is now widely accepted as a diagnostic tool for asbestosis and asbestos-related pleural scarring. HRCT is an excellent technique for diagnosis of asbestosis and asbestos-related plaque. Recent studies show that readers using a scoring index were more accurate and reliable in the diagnosis of asbestosis that when using plain chest x-rays. This study concluded that “the examined HRCT scoring method proved to be a simple, reliable, and reproducible method for classifying lung fibrosis and diagnosing asbestosis also in large populations with occupational disease, and it would be possible to use it as a part of an international classification”. Expert consensus supports this conclusion.
Disease from asbestos is also detected on pulmonary function testing, and PFTs are used to quantity the level of lung impairment due to asbestosis. Asbestosis makes the lung stiffer and smaller, so the volume of air in the lungs is decreased. Oxygen transport as measured by the diffusion capacity is also decreased. Abnormalities are measured using spirometry, lung volumes, and gas exchange testing. Spirometry is reliable and reproducible when performed according to the specifications set by the American Thoracic Society (ATS) . Determination of lung volumes can be done by the gas dilution method or by body plethysmography; both are standard measures and also are reliable and reproducible. The ATS also sets standards for diffusion capacity , which ensure uniformity among laboratories and reproducibility.
Asbestosis can affect each of these tests without necessarily showing an abnormality in the other two. Spirometry and total lung capacity both measure lung volume, but one may be abnormal while the second remains normal. The diffusion capacity measures a decrease in oxygen exchange in the lung, and so is measuring a different function of the lung than lung volumes. Asbestosis can just as easily be manifest with a decreased lung volume or a decrease in gas exchange; neither is a better, more sensitive or more accurate test, and both types of tests must be used in any set of diagnostic criteria. The diffusion capacity has been shown to correlate with the severity of fibrosis found on pathologic examination of the lung, and a reduction in diffusion capacity can precede x-ray changes.
The changes in pulmonary function at times can be subtle, and test results should be interpreted by someone with experience in asbestos related diseases. Pulmonary exercise testing can be used to clarify subtle abnormalities, and any compensation system must allow the examining physician to submit a medical report and rationale based on accepted medical tests. Because the diagnosis of asbestosis or any other asbestos-related disease can be made with a range of medical tests, it is essential that any compensation system include a medical panel to review cases that do not meet the most common diagnostic criteria. As just one example of a study that supports the need for a medical panel, Kipen reported that 18% of insulators who had asbestosis found on pathological examination the lung had a normal chest x-ray . If we were to require a 1/0 film in all cases of asbestosis, these workers would be excluded. Pathological examination is not required in the absence of x-ray abnormalities; a combination of CT scan and exercise testing can reasonably approximate the specificity as tissue examination.
Once this scar formation takes place it is irreversible. It gets worse in some cases, even after exposure stops. Factors that are associated with worsening scarring include the severity of disease (the more the scarring, the more likely it is to get worse), and the amount and intensity of exposure to asbestos. Because of the damage to the lungs a person with asbestosis is at increased risk of lung infections and so should get regular medical care and influenza vaccines."
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - Part I
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - Part III
"There are several medical diseases that occur as a result of asbestos exposure. The ones of greatest concern and importance are pleural plaques and thickening; asbestosis; lung cancer; colon, laryngeal, pharyngeal cancer; and mesothelioma. For many workers, these diseases are disabling or fatal. For each disease there is a standard set of tests, and generally accepted criteria, for diagnosis.
Pleural Plaques and Thickening
Pleural plaques are also called pleural fibrosis, pleural thickening, and pleural asbestosis. A majority of persons with heavy exposure to asbestos develop pleural abnormalities. The pleura is a thin lining that surrounds the lung. Asbestos fibers that are breathed into the lung are transported to the outside of the lung and cause a scar to form in the pleural lining. When these scars reach a certain size they are visible on chest x ray as a plaque.
Most of these plaques alone do not cause disability, but they do tell us that significant exposure has occurred, and that other asbestos related diseases may be present. However, some types of plaques can cause loss of lung function. Scars that involve the costophrenic angle, the angle between the base of the lung and the diaphragm, can cause loss of lung function, as can extensive plaques on both sides of the lung.
Parenchymal Asbestosis (Pulmonary Asbestosis)
Parenchymal asbestosis is a scar formation in the substance of the lung itself. These scars can interfere with lung function, for they block the transport of oxygen from the air in the lungs into the blood vessels that travel through the lungs. Oxygen can only cross the membranes of the lung if they are thin; asbestosis causes them to thicken. As a general rule the greater the exposure the more the disease, i.e. there is a dose-response relationship between exposure and disease. However, some people seem to form scars more readily and so we see a variety of disease from the same level of exposure. These scars are visible on x ray in most cases but certainly not all cases. High resolution CT scan of the chest can find disease not seen on a plain chest x-ray, and is becoming an important component of the standard practice for the diagnosis of asbestosis. The International Labor Organization developed a way of grading chest x-rays for dust diseases of the lung. The most recent version is the1980 Classification of the Radiographic Appearance of Pneumoconioses (dust diseases of the lung). This system is accepted around the world. It provides a standard notation, so that if one reader calls a film a “1/1” another reader will know what the first reader is referring to. The classification uses a 12-point scale to define the degree, or severity, of increased lung markings. Classification of pleural changes (involvement of the membrane lining the chest wall and the lung) uses a separate scale, with specific notations made for side of the chest, whether or not the plaques contain calcium deposits, and the specific type, length, and width of the thickening of the pleura.
This 12-point scale runs from 0/- to 3/+; a “0” film is normal and a “3” film is the most severe scarring. Each reading on the scale is characterized by a number between 0 and 3, and a second number, separated by “/”. The first number, preceding the “/”, is the final number assigned to that film by that reader. The second number, following the “/”, is a qualifier. The numbers 0, 1, 2, and 3 are the main categories. An x-ray read as a category 1 film might be described as 1/0, 1/1, or 1/ 2. When the reader uses 1/1, he is rating the film as a 1, and only considered it as a 1 film. If he uses 1/0, he is saying is rating the film as a “1”, but considered calling it a “0” film before deciding it was category 1. Finally, when the reader uses 1/2, he is saying he is rating the film as a “1”, but did consider calling it a “2” film. In clinical practice, any category “1” film is abnormal; therefore a 1/0 film is consistent with asbestosis.
Even though the ILO system was designed to standardize reading x-rays for asbestosis, studies using the classification in asbestos exposed workers have found readers often disagree about classification of the same x-rays. Using the classification is somewhat of an art. Body size, weight, position of the person during the x-ray, and x-ray technique affect the amount of scarring that is visible on an x-ray. If an x-ray is less than perfect, one reader may think he can be sure scarring is present, while another cannot be sure and grades the film with a lower score for scarring.
The “best” readers agree 80% of the time with each other; 20% of the time they assign a different score to the same x-ray. If the scarring is extensive, a difference of one grade on the scale is not important. But if the x-ray shows less extensive scarring, a difference of one grade can be the difference between making diagnosis of asbestosis or deciding asbestosis is not present. For this reason experts agree that the x-ray alone should not be used to make a diagnosis of asbestosis; the examining physician should use the occupational and medical history, results of pulmonary function testing, and other medical data to reach a diagnosis. Experts also agree that asbestosis can be present in the lung even though the x-ray is normal using the ILO classification system.
High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is now widely accepted as a diagnostic tool for asbestosis and asbestos-related pleural scarring. HRCT is an excellent technique for diagnosis of asbestosis and asbestos-related plaque. Recent studies show that readers using a scoring index were more accurate and reliable in the diagnosis of asbestosis that when using plain chest x-rays. This study concluded that “the examined HRCT scoring method proved to be a simple, reliable, and reproducible method for classifying lung fibrosis and diagnosing asbestosis also in large populations with occupational disease, and it would be possible to use it as a part of an international classification”. Expert consensus supports this conclusion.
Disease from asbestos is also detected on pulmonary function testing, and PFTs are used to quantity the level of lung impairment due to asbestosis. Asbestosis makes the lung stiffer and smaller, so the volume of air in the lungs is decreased. Oxygen transport as measured by the diffusion capacity is also decreased. Abnormalities are measured using spirometry, lung volumes, and gas exchange testing. Spirometry is reliable and reproducible when performed according to the specifications set by the American Thoracic Society (ATS) . Determination of lung volumes can be done by the gas dilution method or by body plethysmography; both are standard measures and also are reliable and reproducible. The ATS also sets standards for diffusion capacity , which ensure uniformity among laboratories and reproducibility.
Asbestosis can affect each of these tests without necessarily showing an abnormality in the other two. Spirometry and total lung capacity both measure lung volume, but one may be abnormal while the second remains normal. The diffusion capacity measures a decrease in oxygen exchange in the lung, and so is measuring a different function of the lung than lung volumes. Asbestosis can just as easily be manifest with a decreased lung volume or a decrease in gas exchange; neither is a better, more sensitive or more accurate test, and both types of tests must be used in any set of diagnostic criteria. The diffusion capacity has been shown to correlate with the severity of fibrosis found on pathologic examination of the lung, and a reduction in diffusion capacity can precede x-ray changes.
The changes in pulmonary function at times can be subtle, and test results should be interpreted by someone with experience in asbestos related diseases. Pulmonary exercise testing can be used to clarify subtle abnormalities, and any compensation system must allow the examining physician to submit a medical report and rationale based on accepted medical tests. Because the diagnosis of asbestosis or any other asbestos-related disease can be made with a range of medical tests, it is essential that any compensation system include a medical panel to review cases that do not meet the most common diagnostic criteria. As just one example of a study that supports the need for a medical panel, Kipen reported that 18% of insulators who had asbestosis found on pathological examination the lung had a normal chest x-ray . If we were to require a 1/0 film in all cases of asbestosis, these workers would be excluded. Pathological examination is not required in the absence of x-ray abnormalities; a combination of CT scan and exercise testing can reasonably approximate the specificity as tissue examination.
Once this scar formation takes place it is irreversible. It gets worse in some cases, even after exposure stops. Factors that are associated with worsening scarring include the severity of disease (the more the scarring, the more likely it is to get worse), and the amount and intensity of exposure to asbestos. Because of the damage to the lungs a person with asbestosis is at increased risk of lung infections and so should get regular medical care and influenza vaccines."
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - Part I
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - Part III
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Significant Occupational Exposure Rating
Ref. No. | Occupation | Industry |
5001 | Boiler Coverers | Aerospace/Aviation |
5002 | Boiler Inspector | Aerospace/Aviation |
5003 | Boiler Insulator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5004 | Boiler Maker | Aerospace/Aviation |
5005 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5006 | Boiler Operator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5007 | Boiler Plant Operator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5008 | Boiler Repair | Aerospace/Aviation |
5009 | Boiler Supervisor | Aerospace/Aviation |
5010 | Boiler Technician | Aerospace/Aviation |
5011 | Boiler Tender | Aerospace/Aviation |
5012 | Boiler Tester | Aerospace/Aviation |
5013 | Boiler Washer | Aerospace/Aviation |
5014 | Boiler Worker | Aerospace/Aviation |
5015 | Boilermaid | Aerospace/Aviation |
5016 | Boilermaker | Aerospace/Aviation |
5017 | Boilermaker Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5018 | Boilermaker Supervisor | Aerospace/Aviation |
5019 | Boilerman | Aerospace/Aviation |
5020 | Boilers Mfg. Plant Worker | Aerospace/Aviation |
5021 | Boilertender | Aerospace/Aviation |
4 | Brake Line,Shoe Installer,Repairman | Aerospace/Aviation |
5022 | Burner | Aerospace/Aviation |
5023 | Burner Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5024 | Insulation Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5025 | Insulator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5026 | Insulator Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5027 | Insulator Helper/Apprentice | Aerospace/Aviation |
5028 | Insulator's Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5029 | Lagger | Aerospace/Aviation |
5030 | Millwright | Aerospace/Aviation |
5031 | Pipe Coverer | Aerospace/Aviation |
5032 | Pipe Insulator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5033 | Pipe Welder | Aerospace/Aviation |
15 | Pipefitter | Aerospace/Aviation |
5034 | Pipefitter's Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5035 | Plumber | Aerospace/Aviation |
5036 | Refractory Insulator | Aerospace/Aviation |
5037 | Sheetmetal Worker | Aerospace/Aviation |
20 | Steamfitter | Aerospace/Aviation |
21 | Welder | Aerospace/Aviation |
5038 | Welder Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
5039 | Welder's Helper | Aerospace/Aviation |
22 | Abatement Worker | Asbestos Abatement |
5040 | Boiler Coverers | Asbestos Abatement |
5041 | Boiler Inspector | Asbestos Abatement |
5042 | Boiler Insulator | Asbestos Abatement |
5043 | Boiler Maker | Asbestos Abatement |
5044 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5045 | Boiler Operator | Asbestos Abatement |
5046 | Boiler Plant Operator | Asbestos Abatement |
5047 | Boiler Repair | Asbestos Abatement |
5048 | Boiler Supervisor | Asbestos Abatement |
5049 | Boiler Technician | Asbestos Abatement |
5050 | Boiler Tender | Asbestos Abatement |
5051 | Boiler Tester | Asbestos Abatement |
5052 | Boiler Washer | Asbestos Abatement |
5053 | Boiler Worker | Asbestos Abatement |
5054 | Boilermaid | Asbestos Abatement |
5055 | Boilermaker | Asbestos Abatement |
5056 | Boilermaker Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5057 | Boilermaker Supervisor | Asbestos Abatement |
5058 | Boilerman | Asbestos Abatement |
5059 | Boilers Mfg. Plant Worker | Asbestos Abatement |
5060 | Boilertender | Asbestos Abatement |
5061 | Burner | Asbestos Abatement |
5062 | Burner Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5063 | Insulation Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5064 | Insulator | Asbestos Abatement |
5065 | Insulator Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5066 | Insulator Helper/Apprentice | Asbestos Abatement |
5067 | Insulator's Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5068 | Lagger | Asbestos Abatement |
5069 | Millwright | Asbestos Abatement |
5070 | Pipe Coverer | Asbestos Abatement |
5071 | Pipe Insulator | Asbestos Abatement |
5072 | Pipe Welder | Asbestos Abatement |
5073 | Pipefitter | Asbestos Abatement |
5074 | Pipefitter's Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5075 | Plumber | Asbestos Abatement |
5076 | Refractory Insulator | Asbestos Abatement |
23 | Ripout | Asbestos Abatement |
5077 | Sheetmetal Worker | Asbestos Abatement |
5078 | Steamfitter | Asbestos Abatement |
5079 | Welder | Asbestos Abatement |
5080 | Welder Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
5081 | Welder's Helper | Asbestos Abatement |
24 | Bagger | Asbestos Mining |
25 | Blender | Asbestos Mining |
5082 | Boiler Coverers | Asbestos Mining |
5083 | Boiler Inspector | Asbestos Mining |
5084 | Boiler Insulator | Asbestos Mining |
5085 | Boiler Maker | Asbestos Mining |
5086 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5087 | Boiler Operator | Asbestos Mining |
5088 | Boiler Plant Operator | Asbestos Mining |
5089 | Boiler Repair | Asbestos Mining |
5090 | Boiler Supervisor | Asbestos Mining |
5091 | Boiler Technician | Asbestos Mining |
5092 | Boiler Tender | Asbestos Mining |
5093 | Boiler Tester | Asbestos Mining |
5094 | Boiler Washer | Asbestos Mining |
5095 | Boiler Worker | Asbestos Mining |
5096 | Boilermaid | Asbestos Mining |
5097 | Boilermaker | Asbestos Mining |
5098 | Boilermaker Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5099 | Boilermaker Supervisor | Asbestos Mining |
5100 | Boilerman | Asbestos Mining |
5101 | Boilers Mfg. Plant Worker | Asbestos Mining |
5102 | Boilertender | Asbestos Mining |
5103 | Burner | Asbestos Mining |
5104 | Burner Helper | Asbestos Mining |
26 | Car Loader | Asbestos Mining |
27 | Crusher Operator | Asbestos Mining |
28 | Driller | Asbestos Mining |
29 | Dryer Operator | Asbestos Mining |
30 | Heavy Equipment Operator | Asbestos Mining |
5105 | Insulation Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5106 | Insulator | Asbestos Mining |
5107 | Insulator Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5108 | Insulator Helper/Apprentice | Asbestos Mining |
5109 | Insulator's Helper | Asbestos Mining |
31 | Laboratory Technician | Asbestos Mining |
32 | Laborer | Asbestos Mining |
5110 | Lagger | Asbestos Mining |
33 | Mill Operator | Asbestos Mining |
5111 | Millwright | Asbestos Mining |
34 | Pack Hauler | Asbestos Mining |
35 | Packer | Asbestos Mining |
36 | Palletizer | Asbestos Mining |
5112 | Pipe Coverer | Asbestos Mining |
5113 | Pipe Insulator | Asbestos Mining |
5114 | Pipe Welder | Asbestos Mining |
5115 | Pipefitter | Asbestos Mining |
5116 | Pipefitter's Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5117 | Plumber | Asbestos Mining |
5118 | Refractory Insulator | Asbestos Mining |
5119 | Sheetmetal Worker | Asbestos Mining |
5120 | Steamfitter | Asbestos Mining |
37 | Truck Driver | Asbestos Mining |
38 | Weaver of Asbestos Fibers | Asbestos Mining |
39 | Welder | Asbestos Mining |
5121 | Welder Helper | Asbestos Mining |
5122 | Welder's Helper | Asbestos Mining |
40 | Aluminum Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
41 | Asbestos Floor Supervisor | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
42 | Asbestos Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
43 | Assembly Line Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
45 | Bag Opener | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
46 | Bale Roller | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
47 | Beaterman | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5123 | Boiler Coverers | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5124 | Boiler Inspector | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5125 | Boiler Insulator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5126 | Boiler Maker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5127 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5128 | Boiler Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5129 | Boiler Plant Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5130 | Boiler Repair | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5131 | Boiler Supervisor | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5132 | Boiler Technician | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5133 | Boiler Tender | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5134 | Boiler Tester | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5135 | Boiler Washer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5136 | Boiler Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5137 | Boilermaid | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
48 | Boilermaker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5138 | Boilermaker Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5139 | Boilermaker Supervisor | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5140 | Boilerman | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5141 | Boilers Mfg. Plant Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5142 | Boilertender | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5143 | Burner | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5144 | Burner Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
49 | Carder of Asbestos Yarn | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
51 | Crusher | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
52 | Cutter | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
53 | Design Engineer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
54 | Electrician | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
55 | Fabricator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
56 | Foreman | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
57 | Forklift Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
58 | Hopper Loader | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5145 | Insulation Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5146 | Insulator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5147 | Insulator Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5148 | Insulator Helper/Apprentice | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5149 | Insulator's Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
59 | Laborer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5150 | Lagger | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
60 | Loader | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
61 | Machine Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
62 | Maintenance | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
63 | Millwright | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
64 | Mixer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
65 | Molder | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
66 | Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
67 | Patcher | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
68 | Piece Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5151 | Pipe Coverer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5152 | Pipe Insulator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5153 | Pipe Welder | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
69 | Pipefitter | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5154 | Pipefitter's Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
70 | Plant Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
71 | Plumber | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
72 | Production Engineer | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
73 | Puncher of Asbestos Cement Pipes | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
74 | Puncher of Flooring Materials | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
75 | Puncher of Gaskets | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
76 | Puncher of Millboard | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
77 | Puncher of Reinforced Plastics | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
78 | Puncher of Roofing Materials | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5155 | Refractory Insulator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
79 | Runner | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
80 | Salesman | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
81 | Saw Operator | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
82 | Sheetmetal Worker | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
83 | Spinner of Asbestos Cloths | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
84 | Steamfitter | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
85 | Stock Preparation | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
86 | Tow Motor Driver | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
87 | Trouble Shooter | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
88 | Truck Driver | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
89 | Warehouseman | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
90 | Weaver of Asbestos Textiles | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
91 | Welder | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5156 | Welder Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
5157 | Welder's Helper | Asbestos Products Manufacturing |
92 | Assembler and installer of Brakes | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
93 | Assembler of Clutches | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
95 | Auto Mechanic | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5158 | Boiler Coverers | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5159 | Boiler Inspector | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5160 | Boiler Insulator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5161 | Boiler Maker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5162 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5163 | Boiler Operator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5164 | Boiler Plant Operator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5165 | Boiler Repair | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5166 | Boiler Supervisor | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5167 | Boiler Technician | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5168 | Boiler Tender | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5169 | Boiler Tester | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5170 | Boiler Washer | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5171 | Boiler Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5172 | Boilermaid | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5173 | Boilermaker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5174 | Boilermaker Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5175 | Boilermaker Supervisor | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5176 | Boilerman | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5177 | Boilers Mfg. Plant Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5178 | Boilertender | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
99 | Brake and Clutch Repairman | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
100 | Brake Mechanic | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
101 | Brake Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
102 | Brake Yard Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5179 | Burner | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5180 | Burner Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
106 | Foundry Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
108 | Grinder | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5181 | Insulation Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
109 | Insulator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5182 | Insulator Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5183 | Insulator Helper/Apprentice | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5184 | Insulator's Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
111 | Iron Pourer | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5185 | Lagger | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5186 | Millwright | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5187 | Pipe Coverer | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5188 | Pipe Insulator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5189 | Pipe Welder | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
121 | Pipefitter | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5190 | Pipefitter's Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
123 | Plumber | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
125 | Power House Mechanic | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5191 | Refractory Insulator | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5192 | Sheetmetal Worker | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
131 | Steamfitter | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5193 | Welder | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5194 | Welder Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
5195 | Welder's Helper | Automotive/Mechanical Friction |
141 | Ash Puller | Chemical |
142 | Assembler | Chemical |
143 | B Operator | Chemical |
144 | Bale press operator | Chemical |
145 | Beamer | Chemical |
5196 | Boiler Coverers | Chemical |
146 | Boiler Inspector | Chemical |
5197 | Boiler Insulator | Chemical |
5198 | Boiler Maker | Chemical |
5199 | Boiler Mechanic Helper | Chemical |
147 | Boiler Operator | Chemical |
5200 | Boiler Plant Operator | Chemical |
148 | Boiler Repair | Chemical |
149 | Boiler Supervisor | Chemical |
5201 | Boiler Technician | Chemical |
5202 | Boiler Tender | Chemical |
5203 | Boiler Tester | Chemical |
150 | Boiler Washer | Chemical |
5204 | Boiler Worker | Chemical |
5205 | Boilermaid | Chemical |
151 |
Asbestos Claims Trust - Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch
Testimony of
Dr. Laura Stewart Welch
Medical Director
Center to Protect Workers Rights
June 4, 2003
(part I)
Dr. Laura Stewart Welch
Medical Director
Center to Protect Workers Rights
June 4, 2003
(part I)
Testimony of Laura Welch,
MD Medical Director, Center to Protect Workers Rights
On Asbestos Related Diseases – Medical Criteria, Populations at Risk and Disease Projections
Before the Senate Judiciary Committee
June 4, 2003
"Chairman Hatch, Senator Leahy and members of the committee, I want to thank you for the opportunity to appear before the committee to testify on medical and diagnostic criteria for asbestos-related diseases.
MY BACKGROUND
My name is Laura S. Welch. I am a physician, board certified in internal medicine and occupational medicine, licensed to practice here in DC and in Maryland. For many years I have had an active medical practice and treated many workers with asbestos-related disorders. I am currently medical director for The Center To Protect Workers Rights, a research institute affiliated with the Building and Construction Trades department of the AFL-CIO. I am also the author of over 50 peer-reviewed publications and technical reports in the field of occupational and environmental medicine, and am currently an investigator on six research projects in the field. I have served as a consultant to many federal agencies, including OSHA, NIOSH, CDC and the NIH. I have special interest and experience in health and safety in the construction industry. I have worked with several union-management committees on health and safety issues, including Boeing-United Auto Workers, and Rail Management and Rail Labor for the US railroad industry. Since 1987 I have worked with the Sheet Metal Occupational Health Institute (SMOHIT), a labor-management trust for the unionized segment of the sheet metal industry. SMOHIT has sponsored a medical examination program for sheet metal workers in the United States and Canada, to detect occupational lung disease and asbestos-related disease in particular. I have published several papers describing the findings of asbestos-related disease in this group of construction workers , and am now looking at changes in patterns of disease over time in order to project disease rates into the future. Over the past several months I have been participating on behalf of the AFL-CIO in discussions with the Asbestos Study Group, interested insurance companies, and other parties on establishment of an administrative system for asbestos compensation.
THE LEGACY OF ASBESTOS
Decades of uncontrolled use of asbestos, even after its hazards were known, have resulted in an occupational disease crisis in the United States and throughout the world of monumental scope. In this country, from 1940 to 1979, 27.5 million workers were occupationally exposed to asbestos in shipyards, manufacturing operations, construction work and a wide range of other industries and occupations; 18.8 million of these having high levels of exposure . As a result hundreds of thousands of workers and their family members have suffered or died of asbestos-related cancers and lung disease, and more than a million more cases are expected. In this year alone, in 2003, almost 10,000 people in the United States are expected to die from asbestos-related diseases. Because of the long lag between exposure and the development of cancer or other asbestos diseases, the asbestos disease epidemic is only now peaking, and will be with us for decades to come. There is no disputing the fact that many have died of asbestos related disease, and many more will die in the future. Everyone here today must agree that a remedy is needed; we now must agree on what remedy is fair and adequate."
Testimony of Dr. Laura S. Welch - Part II
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