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Mesothelioma is a serious, rare, and aggressive form of cancer that occurs in higher than average rates in Philadelphia and New Jersey. This is because mesothelioma is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, a product that remains in widespread use in regional manufacturing and construction. With no cure for this cancer, researchers have been working overtime searching for possible treatments. Researchers at the University of Iowa may have made a breakthrough with Vitamin C.
Vitamins have long been considered potential treatments for cancer. Vitamin E has been evaluated because of its anti-oxidant properties. Until recently, Vitamin C had largely been ruled out because it was found ineffective in previous trials. The researchers at University of Iowa however, discovered that the reason for the failure of Vitamin C as a treatment for mesothelioma may be the mode of ingestion. In previous tests for cancer treatment, the vitamin was administered orally. When UI researchers administered Vitamin C intravenously, they noted very different results.
The study team discovered that when they administered Vitamin C directly into the bloodstream of mice, there was an uptick in the concentration of cell-killing hydrogen peroxide. The reason the process seems to work is because healthy cells can produce an abundance of catalase, an enzyme which can decompose the hydrogen peroxide, rendering it useless against them. Cancer cells by contrast cannot produce enough catalase to counter the deadly effects of hydrogen peroxide. So, in practical terms, the healthy cells can survive while the cancerous cells die.
The UI researchers noted that the Vitamin C intravenous treatment appears to be most effective against pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancers, but are looking at other applications as well. In addition, the researchers hope that these findings will lead to testing procedures which will allow physicians to check the catalase levels in a tumor. If possible, treatment technicians will know prior to choosing a Vitamin C treatment plan whether it will be effective. If the catalase levels are low, Vitamin C should be a viable option regardless of the form of cancer.
For more than 30 years, the Philadelphia asbestos lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler have been helping the families of mesothelioma victims. We strive to help victims throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey suffering with asbestos-related cancer recover maximum financial compensation from those responsible. To arrange a free consultation, complete our online form or call 215-569-4000 or toll free 800-369-0899.