Mesothelioma Life Expectancy

"How long do I have to live?" This is the first question doctors often hear when they deliver a diagnosis of mesothelioma, and it is also the hardest question to answer. Research scientists and doctors have been working to improve the life expectancy for mesothelioma patients for decades. While there is no definitive cure for mesothelioma, patients can  elect to undergo specialized treatment or participate in clinical trials that often help prolong their life expectancy and improve their overall quality of life.
In an effort to help patients understand and improve their life expectancy, The Mesothelioma Center offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment information tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs.

Life Expectancy Factors

Mesothelioma Symptoms

A patient with mesothelioma usually begins showing symptoms 15 to 50 years after their exposure to asbestos. The cancer may take decades to develop in the body and symptoms do not arise until after the cancer is present. Common early symptoms of mesothelioma include fatigue, coughing, shortness of breath and reduced respiratory function. Many patients are unaware they have developed mesothelioma or the severity of their condition as mesothelioma symptoms typically resemble symptoms of less serious illnesses and occur so long after the initial exposure.
If you have a history of asbestos exposure, the leading cause of mesothelioma, and believe you may be showing signs of mesothelioma, it is best to seek immediate medical advice. Informing your doctor of previous asbestos exposure can alert them to the possibility of an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma.
If you have already been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you should strive to gather as much information as possible about symptoms, doctors and the disease of mesothelioma. The Mesothelioma Center offers a free packet covering the nation's leading mesothelioma doctors and treatment centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs.

What are the Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma ?

Patient Resources

The Mesothelioma Center offers a wide range of resources for patients and their families. Please browse through our Patient Resources section to discover how we can help answer questions concerning treatment options, doctor selection and anything else that may be on your mind.

Cancer patients have many forms of support available to them, but often don’t have the time or resources to find everything that’s available. The Mesothelioma Center aims to make this process simple and worry-free for patients by providing comprehensive resources through our website and our Patient Advocates who personally assist patients one-on-one. 

Free Asbestos & Mesothelioma Awareness Wristbands

Mesothelioma Research

After nearly a century of mesothelioma research, doctors have learned what causes this cancer, who is most at risk for contracting the disease, what symptoms indicate its presence and what tools are most effective at diagnosing and treating the cancer. These strides have significantly impacted how medical professionals diagnose and treat mesothelioma. Current efforts are working to develop more effective treatments and an eventual cure for this life-threatening disease.

Pharmaceutical Breakthroughs for Mesothelioma