Mesothelioma cancer caused by asbestos exposure has a poor prognosis rate and four stages to survival outcomes.

Being diagnosed with Mesothelioma or having a family member or friend that does is life altering for all involved. There are a thousand questions one will begin to ask after the diagnosis and most turn to the internet for help obtaining critical answers instead of contacting qualified sources of Mesothelioma support, advice, medical, and legal assistance. One of the first questions most people seek the answer to is how long does the Mesothelioma victim have to live.

In general, approximately 10% of people diagnosed with Mesothelioma will live 2-5 years or longer after the initial finding of the cancer. Each cancer case is different, but most people want to know the survival rate to better understand their situation. The current stage of cancer at the time of it’s finding significantly affects the Mesothelioma prognosis.

Stage 1 - The disease may be seen in the diaphragm, and typically in the pleural lining of either side of the chest cavity.

Stage 2 - The disease may be on both sides of the chest cavity in the pleural lining, and could have spread to other organs or lymphnodes around the chest.

Stage 3 - Typically the disease has reached the abdominal cavity and lymph nodes outside the chest cavity might be affected.

Stage 4 - The disease has entered the blood stream and has moved to other organs.

Survival rates decline as the stages progress.

After understanding the survival rates for Mesothelioma patients, most wonder about treatments that are available. This is a very personal decision and treatment options vary from cases to cases depending on the stage of the cancer and other medical factors in the patient. Most treatments are aimed at improving quality of life for the remaining years, not treating the cancer since there is currently no cure for Mesothelioma.

Patients should discussing all available options with their doctor and clearly understand the risks, benefits, and cost. Some of the available treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or holistic approaches focusing on exercise, diet, and supplements.

If diagnosed with Mesothelioma cancer and seeking answers to these important questions do not do so alone. Surfing the internet which may provide bias or misleading advise can be harmful. Seek qualified support groups nearby who can direct you towards medical assistance and fill emotional support needs.