MESOTHELIOMA SURVIVAL

An early diagnosis can improve a mesothelioma patient's survival

August 16, 2010 – The average survival rate of a mesothelioma patient is four to 18 months after diagnosis, according to the American Cancer Society. But cases of patients living past their predicted mesothelioma survival date are continuing to surface, giving current mesothelioma sufferers a little more hope about their future.

The most recently reported case involved a British teenager who beat the odds by living five years after her diagnosis, thanks to the latest mesothelioma treatment options.

Mesothelioma treatment options depend on what stage the cancer is in when it is initially diagnosed. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the three main options.

But since the mesothelioma latency period can last decades before diagnosable symptoms appear, mesothelioma survival is low among most patients because it is most often caught in its later stages, when surgery options are no longer viable.

An early diagnosis can lead to more treatment options and a greater mesothelioma survival rate. With the development of new tests that aid in early diagnosis (such as the Mesomark blood test), doctors expect more mesothelioma patients to live longer, healthier lives.

Alternative cancer treatments

Many individuals suffering from mesothelioma choose to combine the traditional forms of asbestos cancer treatment with alternative treatments. Alternative options promote good health and provide pain relief in dealing with the side effects of conventional cancer treatments.

Alternative mesothelioma treatment options are many and include acupuncture, herbal and nutritional supplements, yoga, chiropractic care and various other alternative approaches that have proven to be effective. Participation in a mesothelioma clinical trial is another option.

Clinical trials offer modern treatments and hope

Mesothelioma clinical trials represent an important option for many patients with asbestos cancer because they offer access to the newest medicines and treatments available.

People interested in taking part in a clinical trial should talk with their doctor. The National Cancer Institute sponsors mesothelioma clinical trials that are designed to find effective new treatments and better ways to use current treatments, all in an effort to improve mesothelioma survival rates.

Legal options

Weitz & Luxenberg is recognized by the nation’s legal community as New York’s preeminent asbestos-injury law firm, having defended the rights of retired asbestos victims for nearly three decades. The firm is known coast to coast for obtaining record-setting verdicts and settlements for clients who were harmed by the ravages of asbestos disease.

Protect your family’s financial future today and contact us through the communication form at left. At no cost whatsoever, we will provide a free consultation that will answer all your concerns and evaluate your eligibility to file a mesothelioma claim.