Promising New Drug for Mesothelioma
The Food and Drug Administration has fast-tracked approval of a new drug for mesothelioma called Opdivo. After showing promising results in clinical trials, the medication is being hailed by some doctors as the most significant development in the fight against asbestos-related lung cancer in recent history. It is reported that Opdivo demonstrated an unprecedented ability to prolong the life of mesothelioma sufferers.
While this is good news for patients for whom other treatment might not have been working, affordability is a problem. Opdivo, like many other cancer medications, may end being too expensive for patients who need it the most. The Mayo Clinic’s journal Proceedings reports that the cost of cancer treatment drugs has increased exponentially over the past decade. Basic medical insurance generally doesn’t cover these treatments. It is not clear whether insurance will cover Opdivo for mesothelioma treatment.
Mesothelioma is almost always caused by asbestos exposure. It most commonly strikes those who worked in commercial and industrial settings such as powerhouses, shipyards, refineries, chemical plants and other manufacturing settings. Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed at least 20 years after the person’s asbestos exposure.
Barry Sugarman has represented those with mesothelioma and other asbestos related cancers since 1992. In 2014, together with co-counsel, he recovered more than $750,000 for the family of a Johns Manville plant worker whose life was taken by mesothelioma. Over the past 23 years he has represented thousands of workers and the families of workers with mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases. He has represented New Jersey workers and their families from those who worked in PSE&G powerhouses, Exxon Bayway Refinery, automobile mechanics, boilermakers, plumbers, pipefitters, electricians and many other trades who helped build New Jersey from as far back as the 1950’s. He works to win you compensation for pain and suffering and to provide money to help pay for your mesothelioma treatment.
You aren’t alone. If you or someone you love is suffering from mesothelioma, please contact us for a compassionate ear and sound legal guidance.
