Mesothelioma Survival Rate

When medical professionals refer to a cancer’s survival rate they are typically referring to the five-year survival rate, the percentage of patients living five years after their cancer diagnosis. When a person is diagnosed with cancer, they are often informed of the cancer’s average survival rates and are reminded that such figures may not predict any one patient’s length of survival.

According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is approximately 10 percent. Medical reports indicate the average survival time for mesothelioma patients ranges between four and 18 months. Because this cancer is not common, it can be difficult to pinpoint survival rates based on the stage of development at diagnosis. In general, survival rates are improved if the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage of development.

Figures from the SEER Cancer Statistics Review offer a more in-depth look as they break down survival rates by race, sex, diagnosis year and age at diagnosis. The five-year relative survival rate for 1996-1998 was 10.5 percent, which dropped to 7.7 percent during 1999-2005. Overall, females seem to have an increased survival rate, as do African Americans. Age at diagnosis also affected the survival rate, with survival rates increasing the younger a patient was diagnosed.

It is important to emphasize that these figures are derived from patients treated at least several years ago, thus, advancements in mesothelioma treatment may improve survival rates for those now being diagnosed with the cancer. Additionally, a number of factors can affect survival rates, including:

• Current health of the patient


• Age at diagnosis


• Extent of symptoms, such as the amount of fluid in the lungs


• Stage of cancer development at diagnosis


• Size of the tumor and whether it has spread or can be surgically removed


• Type of mesothelioma cancer cells (sarcomatoid, epithelial or biphasic)


• Whether or not the patient is a smoker

Survival statistics may be utilized as a general guide, but considering the multitude of factors that vary from patient to patient, such statistics certainly do not represent or predict any one patient’s experience. Insight into a particular patient’s prognosis and whether survival rates may apply to them is best achieved through their doctor, who can best assess the risk factors involved in their specific case.

Aggressive treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation can sometimes prolong the life of mesothelioma patient, but this varies from case to case. A number of clinical trials have produced increased survival rates among participants, while other trials observe no change in the survival rate. A fighting factor that seems common to the success of many mesothelioma survivors is the inclusion of alternative therapies to compliment their traditional treatment approach. Such alternative therapies aim to improve the patient’s well being or immune system and may include acupuncture, massage, meditation, yoga or nutritional supplementation. To learn more about traditional and alternative treatment options, please fill out the form on this page to receive a comprehensive and complimentary packet in the mail.

Mesothelioma patients and their loved ones may feel discouraged when reading survival statistics, but it is important to remember that research and clinical trials are being conducted across the globe to improve these rates. Advancements in treatment and new options made available through clinical trials are offering much hope to mesothelioma patients and their families. Though statistics may offer a poor prognosis, many physicians and studies report of patients who survive significantly longer than statistics may predict.

The American Cancer Society

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Center for Cancer Research

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Livestrong

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CDC | Cancer Prevention

CDC works with national cancer organizations, state health agencies, and other key groups to develop, implement, and promote effective strategies for preventing and controlling cancer...

CanCare, Inc.

Allows cancer patients and family members to talk freely about experiences, concerns and side effects with a survivor of their same cancer type.