I recently attended the 5th Annual Patient & Carer Day, organised by Mesothelioma UK. Over 200 people attended the event in central London.
As always this was a useful event featuring a number of guest speakers with expertise in various aspects of mesothelioma care.
In the morning Professor Thomas Vogl of the Institute of Diagnostic and International Radiology in Frankfurt spoke about the role of chemoperfusion in mesothelioma. Debbie Brewer underwent chemoperfusion treatment 22 months ago and seems to be doing well, which gives others with mesothelioma hope for the future.
Jeremy Steele and John Edwards said that Professor Vogl must prove that chemoperfusion is both effective and cost-effective before it can be offered on the NHS. Professor Vogl pointed towards the apparent success in his current study but accepted the need for a randomised clinical trial to further explore this treatment method. He stressed that chemoperfusion is not a curative treatment but told us that patients tolerate the procedure well with 72% being discharged on the same day.
Dr Maurice Orange of Attwood Clinic in Worcestershire gave a talk on an integrated approach to mesothelioma treatment using mistletoe and hyperthermia. Dr Orange told us that this treatment, which is not available on the NHS, stimulates the immune system and has a positive effect on the quality of life of those treated. Interestingly a Merseyside PCT has said they will pay for this treatment for one of our clients.
Dr Mary O’Brien talked about how acupuncture can help to alleviate the worst effects of breathlessness suffered by those with mesothelioma.
Tony Whitston told us that the Mesothelioma UK forum is expanding and taking in patient groups. He stressed the importance for all asbestos and mesothelioma support groups to work together and share information.
Overall the day proved to be extremely interesting and I picked up lots of useful information to share with my colleagues. Getting so many experts together in one place is never straight-forward so I’d like to congratulate the organisers on a successful day.