July 22, 2014 – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has good news for those suffering from mesothelioma. The CDC decided last month to restore funding to the National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank, a valuable collection of biological materials for mesothelioma researchers. Budget cuts in 2013 jeopardized the continued existence of the NMVB, but in June the CDC approved a $2.2 million grant that will support the NMVB through 2016.
The NMVB was founded in 2006 by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the New York University School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. The biospecimen registry provides tissue samples and paraffin-embedded blood products, as well as a wealth of clinicopathological information, to mesothelioma researchers. The NMVB currently contains 1,300 biospecimens, and plans to expand are in progress.
NMVB Essential for Mesothelioma Research Advances
With access to the NMVB’s resources, researchers are making great strides in developing treatment options for mesothelioma. New approaches such as immunotherapy, which enhances the body’s own defense system in order to fight the disease, have proceeded to the clinical trial phase, and doctors are seeing improvements in survival rates for mesothelioma patients. The NMVB allows researchers at all levels and in all disciplines to apply for resources, which officials say opens new avenues to developing treatments, improving diagnostic tools, and finding a cure.
The NMVB is the only federally-funded program dedicated to mesothelioma research and is critical to furthering and expanding mesothelioma treatment. Every year, more and more Americans are diagnosed with this devastating disease, which currently has no cure and limited treatment options. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, but symptoms may appear decades after the exposure occurs. A mesothelioma diagnosis often comes with a short life expectancy, as well as a heavy emotional and financial burden for victims and their families.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey Asbestos Attorneys at Shein Law Fight for Justice for Mesothelioma Victims
For over three decades, the experienced mesothelioma attorneys at the Shein Law have helped mesothelioma victims get the compensation they deserve. Our knowledgeable, professional legal team will determine who is at fault for your asbestos exposure and ensure that they are held accountable. We will give your case the personal attention you deserve and prepare an aggressive legal strategy to get you the maximum settlement.
With offices conveniently located in Philadelphia, PA and Pennsauken, NJ, we help asbestos exposure victims throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us toll-free at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at a location and time convenient to you and your family.