All You Need To Know About Mesothelioma

We’ve brought together mesothelioma information and resources to help you and everyone you care about handle the cancer without fear. Here you will find all the things you’ll need to navigate mesothelioma treatment, build a support network, find financial assistance and explore your legal options.
We created this resource to support newly diagnosed patients and their loved ones navigate every aspect of living with mesothelioma. From here, you can find more information about mesothelioma, its treatment and the many ways you can support yourself and your family through this experience

One of the most important first steps after a mesothelioma diagnosis is getting a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist. These doctors have the skills and experience necessary to treat this rare cancer on an individual basis. They can get you access to the latest treatments and clinical trials.

Once your diagnosis is confirmed, you can learn all about mesothelioma and how the cancer is treated. We can help you find the support and resources you need.

Information About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma normally occurs in people who worked with asbestos for a long time. Some people were exposed through a family member who worked with asbestos. This is known as secondary exposure.

• Causes: Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.
  
• Symptoms: The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue and weight loss.
  
• Types: There are four types of mesothelioma:
  
  • Pleural: The most common type forms in the lung lining and is called pleural
    mesothelioma.
    
  • Peritoneal: The second-most common type forms in the abdominal lining and is called
     peritoneal mesothelioma.
    
    
  • Pericardial: Pericardial mesothelioma is rare and forms in the heart lining.
    
    
  • Testicular: Testicular mesothelioma is also rare and forms in the lining of the testes.
    
    
• Prognosis: The prognosis depends upon your overall health and the stage of the cancer. The one-year survival rate is around 40 percent.On average, mesothelioma reduces life expectancy by eight years.
  
• Staging: There are four stages of mesothelioma progression. Most patients are diagnosed in stage 3 or stage 4.
   

Mesothelioma Treatment Resources

Mesothelioma is treated with chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. Clinical trials are testing new treatments including immunotherapy.

• Diagnosis: Mesothelioma is diagnosed with imaging scans and biopsies.
  
  
• Treatment: Your treatment options vary depending upon your type of mesothelioma and how far the tumors have spread.
  
  
• Finding Medical Help: The best doctors arefound at mesothelioma cancer centers, which are located throughout the country. Mesothelioma specialistshave the best experience in treating mesothelioma.
  
  
• Clinical Trials: Innovative treatments and new therapy combinations are tested in clinical trials 

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