California Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Due to California’s history of asbestos use, there is a high incidence of mesothelioma cases in the state. The good news is there are several mesothelioma treatment centers in California where patients can access the latest treatments to help improve their prognosis.

Fact-Checked and Updated by: Jenna Tozzi, RN

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California Mesothelioma Treatment Centers

Mesothelioma cancer centers in California offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, combining the expertise of various medical professionals to provide patients with the best possible care.

Mesothelioma Specialist
  • Home to the Center for Novel Therapeutics
  • Only National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the greater San Diego area
Mesothelioma Specialist
  • Offers clinical trials at various facilities across Southern California
  • Ranked No. 5 in the country for cancer treatment by U.S. News & World Report
Mesothelioma Specialist
  • Offers free nutrition counseling and support groups for mesothelioma patients
  • Named one of the nation’s top 50 cancer centers by U.S. News & World Report
Mesothelioma Specialist
  • Home to one of the top five doctors for mesothelioma and thoracic surgery
  • 75% of veterans say they usually or always get an appointment when they need it

California Mesothelioma Doctors

Because mesothelioma can spread so quickly, patients need to get care from highly trained doctors with extensive experience diagnosing, researching, and treating it.

Fortunately, there are several mesothelioma doctors in California who have dedicated their careers to helping patients live longer, fuller lives.

Some top California mesothelioma specialists are highlighted below.

Surgical oncologist at Moores Cancer Center who specializes in heated chemotherapy for abdominal tumors

Thoracic Surgeon at UCLA Medical Center and founding Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at West Los Angeles VA Medical Center

Use our Free Doctor Match service to get connected with top California mesothelioma specialists and cancer centers.

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California Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Mesothelioma is a devastating diagnosis for both patients and their loved ones. Fortunately, California is home to some of the top cancer centers in the country, providing patients access to both standard and emerging mesothelioma treatments.

Mesothelioma treatment options available in California include:

  • Surgery: Depending on their type and stage of mesothelioma, patients may be able to undergo surgery to remove tumors and increase their life expectancy.
  • Chemotherapy: This treatment helps destroy tumors and kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used as a primary treatment for mesothelioma or in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.
  • Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs help the body’s immune system identify and destroy cancer cells.
  • Palliative care: Focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, palliative care can include minor surgeries, pain management, emotional support, and other therapies.
  • Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used to damage the DNA of cancer cells and shrink tumors.
  • Clinical trials: Eligible patients can access emerging treatments being tested in mesothelioma clinical trials.

Mesothelioma Patient Care Teams in California

Patient care teams include medical professionals from various disciplines who work together to treat mesothelioma patients.

California patient care teams for mesothelioma treatment include:

  • Medical oncologists
  • Nurses
  • Nutritionists
  • Palliative care specialists
  • Pathologists
  • Pulmonologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Social workers
  • Surgical oncologists
  • Thoracic surgeons

Care teams at California mesothelioma centers also offer helpful services like palliative (symptom-relieving) treatment, support groups, and educational programs to help patients and families navigate a cancer diagnosis.

These individuals work together to:

  • Develop personalized treatment plans
  • Offer symptom management and palliative care
  • Provide emotional support and cancer care education

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California Mesothelioma Treatment Research and Clinical Trials

California is home to several research institutions that study malignant mesothelioma and other cancers.

Leading cancer research centers in California include:

These research centers, some of which are National Cancer Institute-designated facilities, are at the forefront of mesothelioma research and treatment.

They offer personalized cancer care and conduct clinical trials for mesothelioma and other cancers.

Our Patient Advocates can help you find mesothelioma clinical trials at top California cancer centers. Call (866) 608-8933 right now to get started.

Scope of Asbestos-Related Diseases in California

Asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma and lung cancer are a significant public health issue in the state of California.

Did You Know?

According to the latest available data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 27,000 Californians died from asbestos-related diseases between 1999 and 2017.

Many of these cases are a result of exposure to asbestos fibers in the workplace, particularly in industries such as construction, shipyards, and manufacturing.

In fact, asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. However, by seeking mesothelioma treatment at top cancer centers within the state, patients fighting this cancer can get the help they need to live longer and feel better.

Cost of Mesothelioma Treatment in California

On average, it costs well over $400,000 a year to treat mesothelioma cancer, and insurance usually doesn’t cover everything.

Some potential expenses to consider include:

This doesn’t include travel, transportation, or hotel stays during treatment.

Financial Compensation for California Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma compensation can help you afford quality care if you qualify. Learn more about how to pursue compensation from lawsuits, trust fund claims, and veterans benefits below.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Mesothelioma patients in California may pursue legal action against companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. A successful mesothelioma lawsuit can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Our partners have secured over $917 million for California mesothelioma victims, including:

  • $34 million for an auto mechanic in Los Angeles
  • $15 million for a secondhand exposure victim in Livermore
  • $7.5 million for a brick tender & laborer in Lakewood
  • $5.6 million for an airline industry worker in Santa Barbara
  • $5.1 million for a union HVAC worker in Sacramento
  • $3.5 million for a U.S. Navy veteran in Fairfield

Get a Free Case Review today to see if our partner law firm can help you or a loved one access compensation for mesothelioma.

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  • Over $30 billion available
  • No cost to file a claim
  • Avoid going to court

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Shara Fisher
Shara Fisher Senior Paralegal
17+ years providing legal help to mesothelioma victims

Asbestos Trust Fund Claims

Mesothelioma patients in California may be eligible to file claims with asbestos trust funds that were created to compensate asbestos victims.

Did You Know?

Over $30 billion is already set aside and currently available in asbestos trust funds. These funds offer financial relief to help cover treatment costs, lost income, and other expenses for those affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

We can help you determine where you may have been exposed to asbestos and file trust fund claims on your behalf. Contact us now to get started.

Veterans Benefits

Former service members with mesothelioma can apply for veterans benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to cover the costs of cancer treatment.

Eligible veterans may receive free or discounted medical care, tax-free disability compensation of nearly $4,000 a month, VA pensions, and other forms of financial assistance.

Get Help Finding California Mesothelioma Treatment

If you or a loved one lives in California and has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have options. Treatment from specialists may help you improve your length and quality of life.

Mesothelioma Hope can connect you with doctors at top California mesothelioma treatment centers.

We can also help you:

  • Better understand your diagnosis
  • Enroll in clinical trials
  • Find support groups and peer mentors
  • File legal claims for mesothelioma compensation

Call (866) 608-8933 to speak with a Patient Advocate or get matched with a doctor now.

Disclaimer

Mesothelioma Hope has no affiliation with and is not endorsed or sponsored by Dr. Robert Cameron. Any contact information listed is for informational purposes only. You have the right to contact Dr. Robert Cameron directly.

Jenna TozziWritten by:

Chief Patient Care Advisor

Jenna Tozzi, RN, is the Chief Patient Care Advisor for Mesothelioma Hope. With more than 15 years of experience as an adult and pediatric oncology nurse navigator, Jenna provides exceptional guidance and support to cancer patients and their loved ones. Jenna has been featured in Oncology Nursing News and is a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators & the American Nurses Association.

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References
  1. American Cancer Society. (2023). Malignant Mesothelioma. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/malignant-mesothelioma.html
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. (2018). Underlying cause of death 1999-2017 on CDC WONDER online database. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from http://wonder.cdc.gov/ucd-icd10.html
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). United States and Puerto Rico Cancer Statistics, 1999-2018 Incidence Archive Request. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://wonder.cdc.gov/controller/datarequest/D172;jsessionid=DA3FC143B54F55C2AAA615EBC193?stage=results&action=sort&direction=MEASURE_DESCEND&measure=D172.M1
  4. City of Hope. (2023). Mesothelioma Program. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.cityofhope.org/clinical-program/mesothelioma
  5. Moores Cancer Center. (2023). About the Moores Cancer Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://moorescancercenter.ucsd.edu/about/index.html
  6. National Cancer Institute (2019, June 24). NCI-Designated Cancer Centers. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers
  7. Stanford Health Care. (n.d.). Pemetrexed Disodium/Observation in Treating Patients W/ Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma w/Out Progressive Disease After 1st Line Chemotherapy. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://stanfordhealthcare.org/trials/p/NCT01085630.html
  8. UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. (2023). Active Clinical Trials. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://cancer.ucla.edu/research/active-clinical-trials-sunsetted
  9. UCLA Health. (2023). Mesothelioma Program. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.uclahealth.org/departments/surgery/divisions/thoracic-surgery/clinical-programs/mesothelioma-program
  10. UCSF Health. (2023). Patient & Family Support Services. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.ucsfhealth.org/services
  11. UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. (2018). “Treatment of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://cancer.ucsf.edu/node/277986
  12. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). UCLA Medical Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/ca/ucla-medical-center-6931755#rankings
  13. U.S. News & World Report (2023). UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/ca/ucsf-medical-center-6930043#rankings
  14. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. (2023, April 5). Mesothelioma: We have one of the best doctors to treat it. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.va.gov/greater-los-angeles-health-care/stories/mesothelioma-we-have-one-of-the-best-doctors-to-treat-it/
  15. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. (2022, June 8). West Los Angeles VA Medical Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.va.gov/greater-los-angeles-health-care/locations/west-los-angeles-va-medical-center/#in-the-spotlight-at-va-greater
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How We Can Help

Mesothelioma Hope is passionate about helping patients and families affected by this aggressive cancer. A mesothelioma diagnosis can be scary and isolating, but we’re here for you at every step. Hope is only a phone call away.

(866) 608-8933
Medical Guidance
  • Get a second opinion
  • Find a doctor or cancer center
  • Access clinical trials
  • Improve your quality of life
Financial Assistance
  • Access $30 billion in trust funds
  • File a mesothelioma claim
  • Increase your VA benefits
  • Apply for travel grants
Supportive Care
  • Find a support group or peer mentor
  • Get help with daily tasks
  • Explore respite care options
  • Navigate life post-treatment