The life expectancy of someone with mesothelioma depends on several factors. Most importantly, how advanced the cancer is and how far it has spread at the time of diagnosis play a key role in determining the treatment plan, the effectiveness of treatment, and how long the person may survive.
When testing identifies pleural mesothelioma early, before it has spread to other areas of the chest or across to the other lung, the person may live for one to two years, or perhaps longer if they respond well to treatment, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Some people can live twice as long as this estimate. Those whose cancer has already spread throughout the chest when diagnosed generally live for a few months to a little over a year.
Five-Year Survival Rates for Mesothelioma
Overall, the five-year survival rate for malignant pleural mesothelioma is less than 10%. The prognosis for mesothelioma depends greatly on where the cancer has spread when diagnosed, the effectiveness of treatment, and the aggressiveness of the person’s disease. In general, the five-year survival rates for this condition include:
- If found early, and if its is localized, the five-year survival rate is 13% to 16%.
- If the cancer spreads or is in the lymph nodes, that rate becomes 5% to 10%.
- If the mesothelioma has spread to distant parts in the body, the survival rate is less than 1%.
The overall survival rate for this period is so low because most patients discover mesothelioma late. It does not show symptoms until it spreads extensively, and it often grows without treatment for many months before the person experiences any issues and sees a doctor.
Treatment Can Help People With Any Stage of Mesothelioma
While there is no cure for mesothelioma and the deadly and aggressive disease usually takes the life of the person affected, it may respond positively to treatments. This means that undergoing treatment could extend the life expectancy of someone with mesothelioma, offer a better quality of life, and help manage symptoms.
When diagnosed before it has spread, mesothelioma may respond well to curative treatment that includes surgery and chemotherapy. The cancer could go into remission at this point and remain there for some time. It will likely return, but this is a positive outcome.
Treatment for more advanced cases generally focuses on chemotherapy to manage progression and to take other steps to manage symptoms. Surgery and radiation are difficult for this type of cancer because of the way they diffuse cells spread across the surface of the lungs and chest cavity.
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Mesothelioma Supports an Asbestos Lawsuit or Wrongful Death Case
If you or a loved one received a pleural mesothelioma diagnosis, you may be eligible to pursue compensation by joining the asbestos mass tort by filing a claim or lawsuit. The asbestos exposure that led to this cancer was not your fault, and your family should not have to pay for your treatment and other expenses. It may be possible to hold the asbestos company liable since they profited from your exposure.
To recover an award or settlement in an asbestos cancer, you will need to have evidence to prove several things, including:
- You suffered asbestos exposure, often as a result of your occupation.
- When and where this exposure occurred.
- You have an asbestos-related cancer such as mesothelioma, or another related medical condition.
- You have economic and non-economic losses and expenses as a result of your exposure and illness.
Many people who consider filing an asbestos lawsuit or a wrongful death action meet with an attorney who regularly takes on this type of case. This is the best way to learn about the strength of your case and to get help pursuing an award.
Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Offers Free Case Reviews
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, our asbestos cancer attorneys review even the toughest cases for free. We can help you understand your options and explain what money may be available to you through an asbestos trust fund.
When we take on this type of case, we charge our clients nothing upfront. If we do not recover an award or settlement on your behalf, we do not get paid.
Call (800) 307-3113 today to get started. Members of our team can evaluate your case for free now.
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