Although this cancer is considered incurable, mesothelioma is not always fatal, thanks to advances in medical research and treatment options. A number of patients have gone on to live for decades after their mesothelioma diagnosis.
"So many people go on Dr. Google, and there's a lot of misinformation and information that doesn't apply to that particular individual. They tend to look at the worst — but I tell them this is not a guaranteed death sentence.”
– Dr. Raja Flores, Mesothelioma Specialist at Mount Sinai Hospital
While it can be overwhelming to find out you or someone you love has mesothelioma, staying hopeful and exploring every available option can make a significant difference.
At Sokolove Law, we may be able to help you pursue compensation for potentially life-extending treatments and other expenses. Contact us now to learn more.
Mesothelioma Prognosis & Life Expectancy
In general, mesothelioma has a poor overall outlook or prognosis because it's often not diagnosed until the cancer has spread. Early mesothelioma symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain often resemble more common illnesses.
By the time a patient's diagnosed, mesothelioma is usually in more advanced stages, making the cancer harder to treat effectively.
How long someone may live after their diagnosis depends on factors like:
- Where the cancer forms in the body
- How advanced the cancer is at the time of diagnosis
- The patient’s age and overall health
- Which treatment options are pursued
Thankfully, researchers are working hard to develop new treatments that can help patients live longer while preserving their quality of life.
On average, the life expectancy for patients with pleural mesothelioma is 12-21 months, according to Penn Medicine, while the life expectancy for peritoneal mesothelioma patients is around 53 months. However, these are merely estimates.
"I asked my mesothelioma specialist how long was I going to live, and she told me, ‘I see 5-10 years and we’ll hope for 10-15.’ It’s been about 5 years since.”
– Dennis, Firm Mesothelioma Client
Every patient’s journey is unique, and many defy expectations. The right combination of treatments and support can make all the difference.
Has Anyone Ever Survived Mesothelioma?
Multiple patients have gone on to become long-term survivors after a mesothelioma diagnosis, leading active and fulfilling lives.
Diagnosed in 1997, Paul Kraus is the longest-living mesothelioma survivor, defying expectations by living more than 25 years.
John Stahl is another example. After being diagnosed with stage 4 pleural mesothelioma, he worked with our attorneys to file a mesothelioma lawsuit and secured compensation for his chemotherapy treatments.
“I'm doing very well now, as a matter of fact. I play golf twice a week. I ride the side-by-side. I go hang out with my friends when they're around. Yeah, I'm pretty well back to normal.”
– John, 5+ Year Mesothelioma Survivor & Firm Client
Julie Gundlach, who was initially given 6-12 months to live, has survived over 18 years after her peritoneal mesothelioma diagnosis. She has advocated for a total asbestos ban and educated others about the dangers of this toxic mineral.
While there’s currently no cure, mesothelioma survivor stories show that it may be possible to live longer with treatments, alternative therapies, and persistence. They remind us that hope can exist even in the most challenging circumstances.
“I really don't care that they say there's no cure, or they say that it's terminal. I'm not going to let it kill me."
– Allan, Firm Client & U.S. Army Veteran with Mesothelioma
Improving Malignant Mesothelioma Survival Rates
While mesothelioma remains a challenging and aggressive disease, advancements in medical treatments have helped improve survival rates.
Surgeons, oncologists, and researchers are continually improving mesothelioma treatments, helping patients live longer, more comfortable lives.
Some of the most common mesothelioma treatments include:
- Surgery: Procedures to remove tumors or affected tissue, like pleurectomy with decortication (P/D) or extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP)
- Chemotherapy: Medications used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth, often used in combination with other treatments
- Radiation therapy: High-energy rays to target and shrink tumors, sometimes used before or after surgery
- Immunotherapy: Treatments that help the body's immune system fight cancer more effectively
- Clinical trials: Innovative treatments are studied for their potential to fight mesothelioma, including new drugs and therapies
Many patients also benefit from a multi-modal treatment approach, which combines two or more therapies in an effort to potentially extend survival.
"There’s a way for people to be long-term survivors. Often, our goal is to get you to the next treatment. Who knows what that's going to be in 2 years? But if we can do stuff now that will get you 2 years, a lot is developing in the next 2 years to get you to your next treatment."
– Dr. Adam Bograd, Mesothelioma Doctor at Swedish Cancer Institute
Mesothelioma Financial Support for Treatment
The cost of treating mesothelioma can quickly add up, often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars a year — and insurance may not cover all of your expenses.
Many mesothelioma patients also find themselves unable to work due to their illness, which can further strain their family’s finances.
However, our mesothelioma attorneys may be able to help you pursue the compensation you need and deserve from sources like:
- Lawsuit settlements and verdicts, which award between $1 Million and $11.4 Million on average
- Asbestos trust funds, which contain an estimated $30 Billion for patients and families affected by asbestos-related illnesses
- VA benefits, which may provide veterans with mesothelioma over $3,800 each month and free health care
“I filed a lawsuit because I couldn't work and needed to provide for my family. It's taken away the monetary concerns associated with cancer, like treatments, transportation, and everyday bills, so I can concentrate on my health and family.”
– David, Pleural Mesothelioma Survivor & Firm Client
Since there’s currently no cure for mesothelioma, treatment is often long-term, which means securing financial support is crucial.
This compensation can help cover the costs of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses that come with managing the disease.
Get Help Improving Your Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
You don’t have to navigate a mesothelioma diagnosis alone. Sokolove Law is here to help you access the resources and support you need to improve your quality of life and possibly extend your life expectancy.
As a national mesothelioma law firm, we may be able to:
- Connect you with our on-staff registered nurses who can answer any questions you may have about your diagnosis
- Help you find specialists who have experience treating your specific cancer
- Provide you with a free mesothelioma book to help you understand your medical and financial options
- Pursue compensation on your behalf for medical bills, lost wages, and more
A mesothelioma diagnosis is never your fault. Let us help you fight back against the companies responsible for your illness and explore ways to potentially help you become a long-term survivor.
Call (800) 647-3434 now or fill out our contact form now to get started with a free consultation.
