Mesothelioma’s Latency Period
Mesothelioma has a long latency period, which is the time between asbestos exposure and symptom presentation. This means that mesothelioma may not be diagnosed until decades after the patient was exposed to asbestos. Such a late diagnosis may make mesothelioma treatment less effective, as it’s likely the cancer has migrated to distant parts of the body.
Patients’ Age and Health
Cancer treatment is often aggressive and may involve radiation treatments. Such treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can prove difficult for patients who are older or in poor health. Additionally, surgery—which is often used as a treatment in the earlier stages of mesothelioma—can be risky for older patients.
The Bottom Line
The aforementioned factors will determine the success of a mesothelioma patient’s treatment. However, in general, the American Cancer Society states that the five-year survival rate for mesothelioma treatment is as follows:
- Localized: 20%
- Regional: 12%
- Distant: 8%
- All stages combined: 10%
While mesothelioma treatments can prolong a patient’s life, it is still unlikely that a mesothelioma patient will live five years after diagnosis of the disease. To add insult to injury, many cases of mesothelioma are preventable when asbestos is identified and disposed of properly.
If you or someone you love developed mesothelioma after an employer or building manager’s negligence, our attorneys are here to help. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of mesothelioma, and we make it our mission to help you and your family move forward after such a devastating diagnosis.
Call Shrader & Associates L.L.P. at (713) 787-3733 to schedule a consultation.