Mesothelioma Survival Rates Improving

December 23, 2017

While there is still no cure for mesothelioma, survival rates are improving – giving victims of this rare but aggressive cancer new hope for the future.

Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer caused by exposure to or ingestion of asbestos fibers. Asbestos has been used for centuries in a variety of applications because of its high durability and resistance to chemical changes.

In the 1960’s, researchers connected asbestos exposure to certain health problems and diseases, including mesothelioma. In spite of this knowledge, asbestos was not banned from commercial use. In the United States, the use of asbestos peaked in 1973. Around this time, asbestos was used in more than 3,000 consumer products.

Why Patients Are Living Longer

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, yet improved survival rates are giving patients more hope than ever before. Mesothelioma symptoms typically take between 10 – 50 years to appear after initial exposure to asbestos. Once diagnosed, there are many different factors that affect a patient’s prognosis. The location where the cancer originates in the body and the cancer cell type both affect a patient’s lifespan. The patient’s age, sex, genes, and stage of cancer also factor into survival rates.

The push for a multi-pronged approach to treating mesothelioma offers patients new hope for better health and longer lives. For many patients, surgery, along with radiation or chemotherapy, are effective in removing tumors and slowing the disease’s progression.  

One Florida man diagnosed with late-state pleural mesothelioma found results with an experimental new drug called Opdivo, offered by a local practice specializing in emerging therapies not yet approved by the FDA. The drug has been successful so far and has fewer side effects than the chemotherapy he first received upon diagnosis. Originally given 4-6 months to live, the man is now in remission and enjoying life with his family.

Another new treatment is showing promise for mesothelioma patients. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) injects a drug into the veins of mesothelioma patients. When activated by light, the drug kills cancer cells with few side effects.  PDT, cancer “vaccines,” and viruses designed to attack cancer cells are also currently in clinical trials.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma patients are living longer than ever before, yet they still require extensive, ongoing medical treatment. Medical costs for mesothelioma patients can be daunting, especially for those left physically unable to work. Victims suffering from mesothelioma can hold employers and manufacturers responsible for their exposure. For the survivors suffering from the loss of a loved one to mesothelioma, financial compensation from a mesothelioma claim can help to supplement the loss of income needed to provide for the future.

Mesothelioma is a preventable disease. The dangers of asbestos exposure have been known for decades. Employers and manufacturers that expose workers and consumers to asbestos should be held responsible. Because mesothelioma symptoms can take up to fifty years to appear, proving asbestos exposure cases can be challenging.

Delaware Mesothelioma Lawyers at  Jacobs & Crumplary, P.A. Fight for Those Affected by Exposure to Asbestos

The Delaware mesothelioma lawyers at the law firm of Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. tackle the most complex cases to ensure you receive the compensation you need to access the best medical care available. Schedule a consultation with a skilled Delaware mesothelioma lawyer by calling 302-656-5445 or complete our online contact form. Attorneys at Jacobs & Crumplar are proud to serve clients throughout the state of Delaware, including those in Wilmington, Georgetown, and Dover.