AI used in battle against asbestos-linked cancer.

[2greys]

International genomics research led by the University of Leicester has used artificial intelligence (AI) to study an aggressive form of cancer, which could improve patient outcomes.

Mesothelioma is caused by breathing asbestos particles and most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs or abdomen. Currently, only seven per cent of people survive five years after diagnosis, with a prognosis averaging 12 to 18 months.

New research undertaken by the Leicester Mesothelioma Research Programme has now revealed, using AI analysis of DNA-sequenced mesotheliomas, that they evolve along similar or repeated paths between individuals. These paths predict the aggressiveness and possible therapy of this otherwise incurable cancer.

Professor Dean Fennell, Chair of Thoracic Medical Oncology at the University of Leicester and Director of the Leicester Mesothelioma Research Programme, said:

“It has long been appreciated that asbestos causes mesothelioma, however how this occurs remains a mystery.

le.ac.uk/news/2021/march/me...

[Alberta56]

It's good to know of any possible treatment for any form of cancer.

[Annie31]

Good article 2greys! This was my diagnosis two and a half years ago. I was given five to six months - the only treatment I have had is regular pleurex drainage which my husband and I do between us. The NHS provides the bottles that's all with the occasional visit from a community nurse! I sincerely hope this will help the many people coming down with this cancer as I fear this will not be as rare a cancer in the future as they view it at this time. The reason for the drastic increase in diagnosis is because it can take between twenty and forty years to develop in the body. I have no idea where I came into contact with asbestos but it's pretty safe to assume many people in our generation will have done so, as it was such a common building material used in a variety of mediums.