Recent research has found that those who are inflicted with mesothelioma cancer may benefit from a second round of chemotherapy.

Many patients are reportedly treated with chemotherapy but their illness still progresses.

Vinorelbine, a leading chemotherapy drug, has proven to be beneficial in second round therapy for patients living with this fatal cancer.

Trying to Fight Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma cancer is a fatal cancer that is typically caused by asbestos exposure.

The “gold standard” therapy, is a combination the chemotherapy drug, pemetrexed, and cisplatin, but doesn’t always help treat the illness.

“Mesothelioma cancer is often rapidly progressive, so patients often sadly don’t reach the second-line setting,” says Justin Stebbing, a medical oncologist. “As first-line therapy has improved, now it’s important to trial second-line therapies.”

Mesothelioma Research Continues

A recent study analyzed second-line therapies in 63 patients whose diseases progressed, after the initial round of chemotherapy.

“Vinorelbine had activity and was surprisingly well tolerated,” explains Stebbing. “However the drug may not be appropriate for everyone.”

(Source: Surviving Mesothelioma)

Do you know someone living with mesothelioma cancer? If so, please contact mesothelioma center to speak with someone about the resources available to you.