Neutropenia is a large drop in white blood cells that people undergoing chemotherapy will sometimes experience due to the toxic nature of the treatment. The condition is dangerous, as it exposes the patient to an increased risk of infection. Incidence of neutropenia is often mitigated by supplementation with vitamin B12 and folic acid.
Some studies show that the supplements have a profound effect on chemotherapy toxicity, but a recent study by British doctors found that the supplements were largely ineffective. They tested 83 patients with advanced lung cancer or mesothelioma and found no significant differences in the incidence of neutropenia symptoms between the recipients of supplements and the subjects who took none.
More testing is needed to figure out whether supplementation has a noticeable effect in reducing neutropenia to enable mesothelioma and cancer victims to live longer, happier lives.
I Have Developed Mesothelioma from Exposure to Asbestos. What Can I Do?
Your first step is medical treatment. Once you have seen a doctor, you should be swift to identify the sources of the asbestos exposure. Many old buildings still contain asbestos insulation, and certain occupations can increase your risk of exposure.
A skilled mesothelioma attorney can help you sort through the complex process of dealing with this disease. Give our Louisiana mesothelioma lawyers a call today for a free consultation.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – Louisiana Mesothelioma Attorneys
Source: http://survivingmesothelioma.com/mesothelioma-chemotherapy-can-supplements-make-it-safer/