Cancer blog

A new Mesothelioma trust supports lung cancer patients

The Mesothelioma Support and Asbestos Awareness Trust (MSAA Trust) is a newly established New Zealand Charitable Trust to support those with a mesothelioma diagnosis and those carers supporting them. The Trust is also collectively raising awareness of the exposure

(pathways and prevention) for asbestos which may lead to the development of malignant mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

The MSAA has six main objectives:

·         Connection

·         Awareness

·         Education

·         Advocacy

·         Prevention

·         Support

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos. It affects the cells that make up the mesothelium, the lining that covers and protects internal organs of the body, typically occurring around the lungs or the abdomen. It is a terminal disease with a poor prognosis and is much more common in males and tradespeople. This disease has a long latency period after inhaling or ingesting asbestos, so it can be difficult to get a diagnosis and often presents in advanced stages.

Mesothelioma has limited treatment options.  In New Zealand, there are approximately 100 people diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. There is no safe amount of asbestos exposure when it comes to mesothelioma. Mesothelioma may not be curable, but it is preventable because the cause is known to be asbestos.  Raising awareness of the causes of malignant mesothelioma amongst the community and industry in New Zealand is key.

Connecting mesothelioma patients and carers with others to provide support and information is a core focus for MSAA.  Also key to their philosophy is the importance of providing a link between medical and other relevant services.

For more information have a look at this short video https://youtu.be/DnNFkmFGhqM

or visit their website: www.msaatrust.org.nz