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Mesothelioma is a rare (uncommon) form of cancer that affects the lining around the chest, abdominal or heart cavities. Mesothelioma is primarily linked with exposure to asbestos. Most often, exposure occurs occupationally where asbestos is inhaled or ingested. Exposure can also occur to family members and in other ways, such as in the home, school or environment.

There can be a long delay between exposure and the onset of the disease, anywhere from 20 to 50 years. Even short term exposure can cause development of mesothelioma decades later. Diagnosing this form of cancer is difficult because the symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to many other common illnesses. Therefore, it can take up to 9 months from (time initial symptoms appeared and) presenting symptoms to diagnosis of mesothelioma.

Worldwide, the incidence of mesothelioma is increasing and is not expected to decline until the year 2020. An estimated 3000 people per year are affected by mesothelioma in the United States alone.

The following information is based on statistical data that may not apply to an individual case. If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, the best course of action is to consult with an oncologist who specializes in occupational diseases.

Overall, mesothelioma patients have had generally short survival rates. Some statistics show the relative survival rate to be less than a year. Less than ten percent of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma live beyond five years. Rate of survival indicates the percentage of people who are still alive after being diagnosed with a disease. Cancer specialists often talk of survival rate in five year intervals. This is based on the number of patients with cancer who are still surviving five years after the time of their diagnosis.

Many factors influence life expectancy so these statistics may vary in individual cases. Survival times are affected by type of mesothelioma, stage of the disease, and time of diagnosis. Other factors include how advanced the cancer has become, the size of tumors, and whether they can be surgically removed. Age and overall health of patients, as well as responses to treatments, also affect times of survival.

A number of studies investigating survival rate among mesothelioma patients have been made. Unfortunately, without any known cure, mesothelioma is always fatal. Promising research, however, is showing evidence that newer therapies and earlier diagnosis are leading to extended survival times. Several new anti-tumor agents as well as diagnostic tests are leading to better results. Trimodal treatments, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, seem to yield the best life expectancy outcomes.

To reiterate, statistics regarding survival rates for mesothelioma come from large based studies and should not be used to determine particular cases. If you or someone you know has symptoms or has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the best course of action is to consult with doctor or care center that specializes in and has expertise with this specific disease.