EAST FREO’S Andrew Hickson knows his mesothelioma is incurable.

“I’m under no treatment whatsoever,” he tells the Herald.

But what is offering some comfort is an exercise program run by Edith Cowan University research fellow Carolyn McIntyre (right, with Mr Hickson).

It’s aim is to ease some of the disease’s side effects: “Mesothelioma patients are often facing a poor prognosis and have difficulties with immobility as a result of breathlessness and muscle wasting,” Dr McIntyre says.

The program is having a threefold benefit for Mr Hickson who says he’s mentally stronger, has a healthier weight, and is rediscovering his muscles.

“It’s definitely helping mentally…and my regime is to keep my weight up and exercise seems to have helped.”

Dr McIntyre wants to recruit 30 patients for the year-long trial.

“Our program is focused on helping patients to maintain their quality of life so they can continue to do the activities they want to do such as travel,” she says.

The program is run by accredited exercise physiologists at gyms around the metro area.

Triggered by asbestos exposure, mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall, and can take up to 40 years to show up. It came to public prominence in the 80s, when asbestos miners and wharfies began dying in high numbers.

Bute Mr Hickson had no connection to the asbestos industry.

“I had blue asbestos in my rock collection as a kid and was around when my father built our asbestos house. And when we were kids on Guy Fawkes Night we would throw little bits of asbestos in the fire and watch it explode,” the 67 year old reflects.

Mesothelioma research is important with a new wave of victims, many home renovators: “They reckon it hasn’t peaked,” Mr Hickson says.

For more information about the trial call 6304 3987.

by JENNY D’ANGER