Mesothelioma Survival Rates

When a patient learns of a mesothelioma diagnosis, the questions that often follow may concern typical survival rates for mesothelioma patients. In general, approximately 10 percent of mesothelioma patients will live for at least five years after they are diagnosed with the cancer. According to medical research, the average survival for a mesothelioma patient is approximately four to 18 months after diagnosis.

Understanding the average mesothelioma survival rate can be complicated because various factors influence the data. Survival rate may be influenced by the level of the cancer’s development (stage), the size of the tumor, whether or not surgery may be preformed and the age and general health of the patient, among other contributing conditions.

For example, a patient diagnosed with mesothelioma in stage one (the earliest developmental stage of the cancer), whose general health is otherwise good, may be a candidate for surgery. If the surgery is successful and the patient responds favorably to additional treatments, their survival may far surpass average survival rates. 

Reading statistical information about survival rates can be discouraging to mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. It is important to remember that research and studies are being conducted internationally to help in the fight against mesothelioma. Treatment options continue to improve and exciting developments continue to surface, providing hope to mesothelioma patients everywhere.

While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, many patients elect to undergo treatment following diagnosis to combat further development and ease the symptoms of the cancer. The most popular treatment options utilized by mesothelioma patients include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.

Many patients also find hope through participation in a clinical trial. Clinical trials are conducted to test up-and-coming treatments and medications before they are deemed safe and effective for the general public. All potential treatment options and medications must go through the clinical trial process before they are approved for widespread use. For additional information about clinical trials currently in progress, please click here to receive a complimentary comprehensive packet.

Alternative therapies are also frequently used by mesothelioma patients. Acupuncture, massage, supplements, meditation and yoga are among the list of alternative therapies that many patients have noted have provided relief and comfort. Although medical documents typically note the survival rate for a mesothelioma patient is less than one year after diagnosis, it is important to remember that many physicians have patients who survive significantly longer than this, with the occasional patient surviving for many years.