June 14, 2012 – A recent press release issued by Penn Medicine discussed a new treatment for patients suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare but highly aggressive and deadly form of cancer caused by the exposure to asbestos fibers. The new innovative treatment option combining photodynamic therapy (PDT) with lung-sparing surgery has shown great promise in improving overall survival rates.
The research study was conducted at the Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania with Dr. Joseph Friedberg as one of the principle investigators. The results of the research appeared in an article in the May 2012 issue of the Annals of Thoracic Surgery, and were previously highlighted in our Shein Law blog.
The study consisted of 38 mesothelioma patients who underwent the lung-sparing surgery in combination with PDT. When patients that participated in the clinical trial were compared to patients who underwent the more traditional treatments that included removing the entire lung, a longer median survival rate was noted. The median survival rate was increased by two or more years. In addition, the investigators noted the benefits of lung-sparing surgery in tolerating any further treatments. Dr. Friedberg has stated, “While I don’t consider anything short of a cure as a victory against mesothelioma, I am encouraged by our results.”
Renowned Mesothelioma Researcher: Dr. Joseph S. Friedberg
Joseph Friedberg, MD, is the Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania Health System-Presbyterian and the co-director of the Penn Mesothelioma and Pleural Program. This specialized program is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of health care providers who are committed to providing patients with the most advanced treatment options offered anywhere in the world. Dr. Friedberg has been recognized by Best Doctors in America for the years 2009-2010 and 2011-2012 as well as Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Docs issues from 2005 through 2012. Dr. Friedberg continuously strives to further develop treatments for malignant mesothelioma as well as other advanced cancers, and is heading additional clinical trials to further improve upon the photodynamic therapy/lung-sparing surgery approach.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyer, Ben Shein, Will Fight For Mesothelioma Victims
Philadelphia mesothelioma attorney, Ben Shein of the Shein Law, is encouraged by the University of Pennsylvania’s research findings and applauds Dr. Joseph Friedberg’s efforts and dedication in continually trying to find new treatment options that would both extend the lives of the victims suffering form this horrid disease and in improving their quality of life. Mr. Shein supports mesothelioma research through his charitable organization, the Benjamin Shein Foundation for Humanity.
If you or a loved one is suffering from the affects of asbestos exposure, the Philadelphia mesothelioma attorneys at the Shein Law can help protect your rights and see that you get the compensation you are entitled to under the law. Our mesothelioma lawyers are experts in the areas of asbestos litigation and have secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients who have suffered from mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. We encourage you to call the Shein Law today at 1-877-SheinLaw (1-877-743-4652) for a thorough review of your case or contact us online.