ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done to learn more about mesothelioma and how to treat it. Use the menu to see other pages.
Doctors are working to learn more about mesothelioma, ways to prevent it, how to best treat it, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with mesothelioma. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Always talk with your doctor about the best diagnostic and treatment options for you.
New treatment approaches. Researchers are evaluating several promising new drugs, including immunotherapy. As explained in Types of Treatment, immunotherapy is designed to boost the body's natural defenses to fight the cancer. It uses materials made either by the body or in a laboratory to improve or restore immune system function. Other treatment approaches such as gene therapy and new methods of radiation therapy are also being researched.
Genetics of mesothelioma. Research is underway to find genetic changes that may cause mesothelioma. Other studies focus on finding specific blood markers that could help detect early-stage mesothelioma. Blood markers are substances found in higher than normal amounts in the blood of someone with cancer.
Palliative care/supportive care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current mesothelioma treatments to improve comfort and quality of life for patients.
Looking for More About the Latest Research?
If you would like additional information about the latest areas of research regarding mesothelioma, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:
To find clinical trials specific to your diagnosis, talk with your doctor or search online clinical trial databases now.
Review research about mesothelioma announced at the 2018 and 2017 ASCO Annual Meetings.
Visit the website of ASCO's Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation to find out how to help support cancer research. Please note that this link takes you to a separate ASCO website.
The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance in how to cope with the physical, emotional, social, and financial changes that cancer and its treatment can bring. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.