Mesothelioma and Holistic Treatments: What You Should Know

Learn how alternative therapies like diet, meditation, and acupuncture may support your treatment plan.

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or other organs. The primary cause of this disease is exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral once widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing for its heat resistance and durability. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers can become airborne and, when inhaled or ingested, can lodge in the body’s tissues, eventually leading to the development of cancer decades later.

Secondary asbestos exposure is real and has been recognized by many courts, including the US Supreme Court. 

While mesothelioma primarily affects those who worked directly with asbestos, particularly when it was a popular additive during the 20th century, secondhand exposure is also a serious risk. Family members of those exposed can develop the disease through contact with contaminated clothing or materials brought home by their loved ones, or by riding in shared vehicles. Individuals who have been surrounded by asbestos in their home or through the everyday products they use are also susceptible to the disease. The presence of asbestos was common in residential homes for many years, including in floor and ceiling titles, roofing shingles, insulation, adhesives, and more. It was also used in household items like toasters, hair dryers, ironing boards, oven mitts, popcorn makers, and cosmetics.

Given the long latency period of mesothelioma—ranging from 20 to 50 years—many individuals are unaware they’ve been placed at risk until symptoms become severe. Early symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic coughing, and weight loss, are also nonspecific, making it easy to attribute these to less serious conditions and increasing the probability that mesothelioma will be diagnosed in its later stages.

The importance of ongoing vigilance in asbestos testing.

Asbestos is highly durable, in the many buildings, roads, and vehicles that still contain it, and in the bodies of those who were exposed.

 For those who’ve come into contact with asbestos, in the workplace, at home, or both – especially those considered high risk – should undergo regular screenings to improve the chances of early detection.

For those who’ve already been diagnosed with this deadly cancer, as well as their support systems, understanding both traditional and holistic treatment options, and the effectiveness of each, is crucial for improving quality of life and prolonging life expectancy.

In this article, we’ll explore mesothelioma screening and diagnosis, traditional treatment options, emerging holistic therapies, and the financial compensation available to help offset the cost of care.

Screening and Diagnosis

The latency of asbestos diseases like mesothelioma means that there are often no symptoms until a condition has advanced and is harder to treat.

As mentioned previously, mesothelioma is difficult to detect in its early stages, primarily because symptoms are often elusive and can mimic those of less severe conditions, such as pneumonia, asthma, or bronchitis. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the cancer has usually progressed to an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment.

For individuals who have worked in asbestos-related industries or been exposed secondhand, regular screening is essential, even if no symptoms are present. 

Asbestos diseases can tDoctors typically use imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to identify abnormalities in the lungs, abdomen, or other areas of the body where mesothelioma tends to present. If these tests show suspicious growths, a biopsy can be performed to confirm or rule out the condition.

Individuals who live in older homes that were constructed during a time when asbestos was heavily used and are now experiencing wear and tear or being renovated should remain mindful of any concerning symptoms, as should anyone who regularly came into contact with asbestos-ladened household products.

Catching mesothelioma in its earlier stages allows for more aggressive and varied treatment options, which can slow the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms.

Traditional Mesothelioma Treatments

Mesothelioma treatments are tailored to the individual based on the stage the disease is in when diagnosed, the patient’s overall health, and other factors such as age and the location of the cancer. The most common treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is typically recommended when mesothelioma is detected early on, and the tumor is still isolated. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the malignant mass as possible. 

Depending on its location, this may involve removing a portion of the lung with a procedure called a pleurectomy or the entire lung (pneumonectomy). It may also involve focusing on the lining around the lung or abdomen. While surgery can be effective in increasing life expectancy, it is often followed by additional treatments to target any remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is another option, especially for patients whose mesothelioma has spread beyond the initial site. This method uses powerful drugs to kill or shrink cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery to reduce tumor size before the operation or to eliminate any lingering cancer cells post-surgery. While chemotherapy can extend life expectancy, it also comes with side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and increased vulnerability to infection and can sometimes impair memory.

Radiation

Radiation therapy is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. This treatment involves targeting high-energy beams at malignant tissues to shrink tumors and kill off problematic cells. Radiation is commonly prescribed post-surgery to eliminate residual cancer cells. It can also be helpful in alleviating some symptoms of the disease, including pain.

In the advanced stages of mesothelioma, when surgery is no longer an option, chemotherapy and radiation are turned to most often. At this point, the purpose of these therapies is primarily to provide symptom relief and improve the patient’s quality of life. Often, at this point, patients are also referred to palliative care, which involves offering comfort measures.

Despite advancements in traditional treatments, many patients seek holistic options to either complement or replace conventional therapies. Understanding how these natural alternatives compare to traditional treatments can provide much-needed direction for patients and their families during such a difficult time.  

Holistic Treatment Options

Holistic treatments generally focus on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just targeting the disease itself. While traditional mesothelioma treatments like chemotherapy and surgery directly fight the cancer, natural alternatives are designed to enhance overall well-being, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life. Though not considered a viable substitute for conventional treatments in the medical sense, many patients find these approaches to be beneficial when used in conjunction with prescribed options.

Nutrition and Mesothelioma

Nutrition therapy is one of the most popular holistic options for mesothelioma patients. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can strengthen the immune system and help patients better tolerate traditional treatments. Some studies suggest that certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Dieticians who specialize in cancer care can design individualized nutrition plans to support mesothelioma patients, helping them maintain a healthy weight and keep energy levels up during treatment.

Acupuncture can be a helpful part of mesothelioma treatment.

Acupuncture is another common holistic approach. An ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain, reduce nausea, and enhance overall well-being, several studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and help with pain management.

Mind-body therapy in treating mesothelioma

Mind-body therapies such as meditation, yoga, and guided imagery are also popular among mesothelioma patients. These therapies focus on reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, all common psychological and emotional effects of living with a serious illness. Regular meditation or mindfulness-based practices can improve mental clarity and promote emotional resilience, while yoga can increase physical strength and flexibility, making it easier to maintain muscle mass amid weight loss and cope with treatment-related fatigue.

Some patients turn to herbal supplements and alternative therapies like homeopathy or naturopathy, too, to support their journey. However, these treatments should be approached with caution, as they are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and some supplements can interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy or other cancer treatments as well as worsen symptoms. It’s important for patients to consult with their medical team before starting any alternative therapies to avoid potential interactions.

The Cost of Holistic Care

In terms of cost, holistic treatments vary widely. Some, such as meditation or dietary changes, may add little to no financial burden, while others, like acupuncture or visits to a specialist such as a naturopathic doctor or registered dietician, can be quite costly, especially if they are not covered by insurance (which is often the case). It can be difficult to prove to insurance companies that natural remedies are “medically necessary,” which is the precedence by which most plans approve claims.

Since traditional treatments also tend to be expensive, combining holistic approaches with medical care is not always feasible. However, there are legal options that could be made available to mesothelioma patients, especially if it can be proven that the diagnosis was a result of workplace negligence. There are also other financial options to consider.

Financial and Legal Compensation

The costs associated with mesothelioma treatment, whether traditional or holistic, can be overwhelming. Fortunately, financial and legal compensation options are available to help alleviate some of this burden.

Asbestos Trusts

Trust funds are an option for those who believe their diagnosis is a result of workplace negligence. Many companies that used asbestos in their products have set up these funds, which collectively hold billions of dollars as part of bankruptcy proceedings to compensate exposure victims. Filing a claim with an asbestos trust can be a relatively straightforward process, and many patients receive compensation without needing to go to court. However, it’s always best to consult with an experienced asbestos attorney who can ensure the claim gets processed properly and as efficiently as possible.

Lawsuits

Another option for financial relief is pursuing a traditional lawsuit against the party responsible for exposure. Mesothelioma lawsuits can result in substantial settlements or jury awards, but the legal process can be lengthy and complex, and generally, time is of the essence following diagnosis. An asbestos attorney can help victims and their families determine whether filing a lawsuit is appropriate and can guide them through the process, maximizing their chances of receiving compensation.

Other Options

Additional non-legal options for offsetting costs include veterans’ disability benefits, workers’ compensation claims, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), state-specific compensation programs, and medical expense reimbursement programs. The availability of these programs will depend largely on an individual’s unique situation. However, reviewing program guidelines online, speaking with employers and other representatives, and accessing resources dedicated to supporting mesothelioma patients can help in determining whether it’s appropriate to apply, and if so, how to do so.

The Road Ahead…

Traditional treatments for mesothelioma such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation remain the primary methods of managing the disease. The viability of each will depend largely on the cancer’s stage when diagnosed as well as an individual’s ability to tolerate treatment. However, many patients also explore holistic therapies to complement these treatments and improve their quality of life.

Holistic treatments, including nutrition therapy, acupuncture, and mind-body practices, offer valuable benefits, particularly in reducing stress, restoring emotional balance, and managing difficult symptoms. While these approaches can improve well-being, they should be used alongside traditional therapies rather than as replacements. Financial and legal compensation options, including asbestos trust funds, lawsuits, and employer- or government-funded programs, can provide significant relief for treatment expenses.

For those facing a mesothelioma diagnosis or supporting a loved one, staying informed about both medical and holistic treatment options can empower all parties to make informed decisions. Working with an experienced asbestos attorney can also help patients and their loved ones explore possible legal options to offset costs. In general, seeking the right balance of care and legal advice can make a world of difference in navigating this challenging journey.