Joseph W. Belluck of New York's Belluck & Fox, LLP, says research represents 'new hope' for many victims of disease linked to asbestos exposure, such as mesothelioma.
New York, NY (PRWEB) April 14, 2012
New York mesothelioma attorney Joseph W. Belluck today praised indications of a major advance in gene therapy for battling the aggressive, usually fatal form of cancer.
Belluck referred to clinical trial results at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Dr. Daniel Sterman of the school recently discussed the results in a teleconference.
"This research represents new hope for many who live with mesothelioma," said Belluck of New York City's Belluck & Fox, LLP. The nationally recognized law firm represents mesothelioma patients and other asbestos victims in New York and across the country.
"While Dr. Sterman cautioned that the results are preliminary, this news should inspire optimism in many mesothelioma patients," Belluck said.
Sterman discussed the research as part of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation's "Meet the Experts" series earlier this month.
He said that he expects to formally present results soon that show an 80 percent response rate to a combination of gene therapy and standard chemotherapy in mesothelioma victims. Sterman's results for tumor shrinkage would represent a rate that is double the rate of other treatments, he said.
"Our goal ... is to turn [mesothelioma] from a death sentence into a chronic disease that people can live with for years," Sterman told the teleconference audience.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdomen. It is typically associated with exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring heat- and fire-resistant mineral fiber that has been used in a variety of industrial and consumer products.
Many mesothelioma victims manifest symptoms of the disease years or even decades after exposure to asbestos in the workplace. It is eventually fatal. However, patients diagnosed early in the course of the disease can see their lives prolonged with aggressive therapy.
"Any advance in research is important for those who have this disease now and for those who may develop it in the years ahead," Belluck said.
Belluck added that victims of mesothelioma or asbestosis who think their disease was caused by workplace asbestos exposure or from consumer products should seek the help of an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to evaluate their claim for compensation.
"We've seen the devastating impact of mesothelioma on asbestos exposure victims and their families, and the ongoing pain and expense that goes along with it," Belluck said. "Mesothelioma victims deserve help with this terrible burden."
About Belluck & Fox, LLP
Belluck & Fox, LLP, is a nationally recognized law firm that represents individuals with asbestos and mesothelioma claims, as well as victims of crime, motorcycle crashes, lead paint and other serious injuries. The firm provides personalized and professional representation and has won over $400 million in compensation for clients and their families.
Partner Joseph W. Belluck is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell and is listed in Best Lawyers in America, New York Magazine's "Best Lawyers in the New York Area" and in Super Lawyers. Mr. Belluck has won numerous cases involving injuries from asbestos, defective medical products, tobacco and lead paint, including a recent asbestos case that settled for more than $12 million.
Partner Jordan Fox is a well-known asbestos and mesothelioma attorney who has been named to the Best Lawyers in America, New York Magazine's "Best Lawyers in the New York Area" and to Super Lawyers. On two separate occasions his verdicts were featured as the National Law Journal's Largest Verdict of the Year. He recently secured verdicts of $32 million and more than $19 million on behalf of individuals who had contracted mesothelioma from asbestos exposure.
In September, Belluck & Fox, LLP, won a coveted spot on a list of America's best law firms, which was published jointly by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers magazine. The listing showcased 8,782 different law firms ranked in one or more of 81 major practice areas.
For more information, contact the firm at (877) 637-6843 or through the online contact form.
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