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Mesothelioma Life Expectancy

The outlook is improving

It is easy to become discouraged when reading about mesothelioma survival rates.  But, in fact, the life expectancy of mesothelioma has been increasing in recent years due to advancements in treatments. Many clinical trials are underway worldwide to identify new treatment options. Today, mesothelioma patients are likely to live longer than they would have just five years ago.

Unfortunately, the statistics show the median mesothelioma life span is still just 4 to 18 months. Physicians and studies now report patients who live with the disease longer than predicted by the overall survival rates.  About ten percent live for more than five years.

Factors involved in mesothelioma life expectancy

Every patient is a unique case.  Life expectancy for an individual patient cannot be predicted with reliable accuracy. But, there are some factors that may contribute to a shorter or longer course for these cases.  The factors that influence the disease’s progression and the life span of mesothelioma patients include the following:

  • Stage at which mesothelioma was diagnosed. When treatments are administered at an early stage, they are more effective in slowing the disease and lengthening a mesothelioma patient’s life span.  The chances of living for five years or more after an early stage diagnosis are four times as great as when the cancer is discovered at a more advanced stage.
  • Type of mesothelioma and type of cell. Pleural mesothelioma patients often have a longer life expectancy than those with peritoneal or pericardial mesothelioma.  Epithelial cells are generally less aggressive than sarcomatoid or biphasic cells.
  • Patient’s age and health. Age-related health problems such as heart disease, lung ailments, and high blood pressure can complicate treatment and decrease the mesothelioma patient’s life span.
  • Smoking. Quit smoking immediately when diagnosed with mesothelioma.  Although smoking does not cause the disease itself, it can greatly decrease the life expectancy of mesothelioma patients.