Onconase is a substance that is currently being studied for use as a cancer treatment, particularly mesothelioma. Mesothelioma cancer is a rare, yet fatal form of cancer, which is caused by exposure to asbestos. Researchers believe that onconase, which is comprised of a type of ribonuclease enzyme, could help treat malignant mesothelioma and possibly be more beneficial than other treatments.

Malignant mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma and although this form of cancer is rare, an estimated two to three thousand people are diagnosed with the illness in the United States each year.

Malignant Mesothelioma Details

Years of research has shown that exposure to asbestos is the main cause of malignant mesothelioma and there is typically a long latency period between the time of exposure and the development of the disease. This type of mesothelioma can typically go unknown in patients for an estimated 30-45 years.

Those who are at most risk of developing malignant mesothelioma are shipyard workers, construction workers, and asbestos miners. Asbestos was banned for use in the 1970s but many people who were exposed to the hazardous substance before this time are now suffering from asbestos-related illnesses.

Finding a Cure

The following are the three traditional methods for treating mesothelioma that have been used thus far:

• Surgery- This treatment is used in an attempt to remove the cancer from the body
• Chemotherapy- A method that uses various types of drugs to fight off the cancerous cells
• Radiation Therapy- Uses high doses of x-rays and other high-energy rays to kill the cancer

Onconase May be a Successful Alternative

Onconase is a protein from the eggs of the leopard frog, which has proven to be an active fighter against a wide range of human tumor cell lines.

In 1999, Dr. Taub, from Columbia University, presented 105 patients with a multicenter phase 2 study with onconase. The results were highly successful and ever since, researchers have been closely analyzing and testing the substance for its usability as a treatment in mesothelioma patients.

To learn more about financing your mesothelioma treatment, contact mesothelioma treatment centers online today.