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Mesothelioma and the importance of a healthy diet

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A recent study has shown that many people who have survived cancer do not follow a cancer-preventing diet. This includes people suffering from the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma.

The John Hopkins and Drexel University carried out the research. They found that long-term survivors of mesothelioma and other terminal cancers may not be following dietary guidelines. These guidelines could improve their long-term well-being.

How much can a healthy diet help?

Previous studies have shown that following a diet which is high in antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruit can have real benefits. It can lower the possibility of you developing cancer in the first place. For people who have already developed the disease, it can help them to cope better.

Paul Kraus, a gentleman who has survived more than twenty years with peritoneal mesothelioma, says that a healthy diet is vital to keep cancer at bay.

The Australian is the author of the best-selling publication, ‘Surviving Mesothelioma and Other Cancers.’ He himself eats great quantities of fresh produce and food supplements, and exercises and meditates every day.

Few people follow a healthy diet:

However, the study referred to above shows that few cancer survivors follow such a healthy diet. The study asked 53 adult cancer survivors to record their diets over three days. The results were then measured using two healthy eating metrics. This included the Healthy Eating Index 2010 and the US Government’s 9-item index.

The researchers then had a discussion with the cancer survivors about their dietary habits and behaviours. Furthermore, they discussed the importance of diet in cancer prevention, with a view to promoting longevity. 

Unfortunately, the researchers were not encouraged by their discoveries. Dr Klassen, who is the author of the study, says; 

“Most survivors had received little nutrition counselling as part of their cancer care, highlighting the importance of holistic, household-oriented nutrition education for maintaining health among long-term cancer survivors.”

Who is more likely to follow a healthy-eating plan?

The study showed that women who had never smoked and were a healthy weight tended to adopt the healthier eating plans. 

The research also showed that people who lived in homes where they had other family members present and engaged in diet decisions, tended to eat better than people who lived alone. Mr Kraus worked with his wife to develop his own diet plan. 

Around 2,500 people develop mesothelioma in the UK each year. This research highlights the need to adopt a healthy diet which is rich in antioxidants, which can promote longevity and all round well-being.

You can download the full research here.

How can we help?

If you require assistance in pursuing a mesothelioma claim, or believe you have a valid asbestos claim for any other asbestos related disease, then please contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.

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