Florida Mesothelioma Treatment

Asbestos use has led to thousands of cases of mesothelioma in Florida. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer with a generally poor outlook. Fortunately, mesothelioma patients in Florida have access to various treatment options that may improve their prognosis and enhance their quality of life. Learn more about Florida mesothelioma treatment, including cancer centers and top doctors that help people with this disease.

Fact-Checked and Updated by: Jenna Tozzi, RN

Last updated:

Florida Mesothelioma Treatment Centers

There are several top cancer centers in Florida that specialize in the treatment of mesothelioma.

These centers offer a range of treatment options, including mesothelioma surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

Mesothelioma Specialist

Dr. Marcelo DaSilva

Orlando

  • Has 14 locations across Central Florida
  • Takes part in more than 175 clinical trials every year

Mesothelioma Specialist

Dr. Jacques Fontaine

Tampa

  • Treatment outcomes are nearly 2.5 times higher than the national average
  • Recognized by the National Cancer Institute

Mesothelioma Specialist

Dr. Dao Nguyen

Miami

  • One of five centers offering RapidArc® intensity-modulated radiation therapy
  • Recognized by the National Cancer Institute

Florida Mesothelioma Doctors

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

Fortunately, specialized mesothelioma doctors in Florida have dedicated their careers to helping patients.

Top Pleural Mesothelioma Specialists in Florida

About 80% of all mesothelioma patients are diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the lining of the lungs.

A few of the top pleural mesothelioma doctors in Florida are highlighted below.

Founded the mesothelioma treatment center at AdventHealth Cancer Institute

Director of the Mesothelioma Research and Treatment Center at Moffitt Cancer Center

Director of Thoracic Surgery at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Thoracic surgeon at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Thoracic surgeon at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital

Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Specialists in Florida

Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of this cancer and affects the peritoneum, the thin membrane that lines the abdomen.

Some of the leading Florida peritoneal mesothelioma doctors include:

  • Dr. Sanjay Bagaria

    Dr. Sanjay Bagaria

    Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL

  • Dr. Shanel Bhagwandin

    Dr. Shanel Bhagwandin

    Jupiter Medical Center in Jupiter, FL

  • Dr. Konstantinos Chouliaras

    Dr. Konstantinos Chouliaras

    Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, FL

  • Dr. Sophie Dessureault

    Dr. Sophie Dessureault

    Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL

  • Dr. Niraj Gusani

    Dr. Niraj Gusani

    Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, FL

  • Dr. Agustin Pimentel

    Dr. Agustin Pimentel

    Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami, FL

Use our Free Doctor Match to get help connecting with top specialists at these cancer centers.

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Florida Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Florida patients can access a range of mesothelioma treatments provided by leading specialists.

Mesothelioma treatments available in Florida include:

  • Surgery: Depending on their type and stage of mesothelioma, patients may qualify for surgery to remove tumors and potentially 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 Florida

Mesothelioma patient care teams offer multidisciplinary care tailored to individual patient needs, incorporating the latest diagnostic techniques, treatments, and clinical trials.

Florida patient care teams for mesothelioma treatment include:

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

These individuals work together to:

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

Download our Free Checklist of Questions to Ask Your Doctor to help guide your next appointment and ensure you get the information you need.

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  • Preparing for treatment
  • Finding clinical trials
  • Getting a second opinion

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Florida Mesothelioma Treatment Research and Clinical Trials

Florida is home to several medical centers and hospitals that are conducting cutting-edge cancer research and clinical trials for mesothelioma.

Some leading mesothelioma research centers in Florida include:

  • AdventHealth Cancer Institute
  • Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute
  • Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
  • Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
  • Orlando Health Cancer Institute
  • University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

Mesothelioma research in Florida is focused on improving how this cancer is diagnosed, treated, and managed.

Clinical trials are a key component of this research, and several institutions in the state offer access to these trials for mesothelioma patients.

Our Patient Advocates can help you find clinical trials at top Florida mesothelioma treatment centers. Call (866) 608-8933 or fill out our contact form to get started.

Scope of Asbestos-Related Diseases in Florida

Florida has the second-highest rate of asbestos-related diseases in the United States, primarily due to its large population of retirees, many of whom were exposed to asbestos earlier in life through their job, military service, or family members.

A report from the Environmental Working Group Action Fund found Florida to have the second-highest number of asbestos-related deaths in the country, with 12,749 deaths between 1999 and 2017.

Mesothelioma is very aggressive, and many Floridians die from it each year. However, by seeking mesothelioma treatment at top cancer centers within the state, patients currently fighting this cancer can get the help they need to live longer and feel better.

Cost of Florida Mesothelioma Treatment

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 Florida 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 Florida 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 $560 million for Florida mesothelioma victims, including:

  • $8 million for an auto mechanic in St. Petersburg
  • $6.88 million for a mechanic in Brooksville
  • $5.8 million for a U.S. Navy veteran in Naples
  • $5.7 million for a maintenance worker in Palatka
  • $3.4 million for a U.S. Navy veteran who served on the USS St. Louis
  • $2.6 million for a 78-year-old bricklayer

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 Florida may be eligible to file claims with asbestos trust funds that were created to compensate victims and their families.

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 Florida Mesothelioma Treatment

If you or a loved one lives in Florida 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 Florida 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.

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. AdventHealth Cancer Institute. (2023). Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.adventhealthcancerinstitute.com/
  2. AdventHealth Cancer Institute. (2023). More Clinical Trials. More Life-Saving Options. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.adventhealthcancerinstitute.com/cancer-treatment-innovations/clinical-trials
  3. Canadian Cancer Society. (n.d.). Clinical Trials. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/clinical-trials/?region=on
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. Moffitt Cancer Center. (November 2021). Mesothelioma Outcomes. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://moffitt.org/about-moffitt/outcomes/mesothelioma/
  7. National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Find a Cancer Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers/find
  8. National Cancer Institute (2019, June 24). NCI-Designated Cancer Centers. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://www.cancer.gov/research/infrastructure/cancer-centers
  9. National Cancer Institute. (November 2021). Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. SEER*Stat Database: Incidence – SEER 17 Regs Research Data + Hurricane Katrina Impacted Louisiana Cases, Nov 2021 Sub (2000-2019). Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://seer.cancer.gov/statistics/
  10. University of Miami Health System. (2023). Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://umiamihealth.org/en/sylvester-comprehensive-cancer-center
  11. University of Miami Health System. (2023). Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center: Mesothelioma. Retrieved December 3, 2024, from https://umiamihealth.org/en/sylvester-comprehensive-cancer-center/treatments-and-services/lung-and-chest-cancer/mesothelioma
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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