The importance of early diagnosis for mesothelioma patients cannot be overemphasized. If you have a history of asbestos exposure—whether from a workplace, your home, or at a public building such as a school—it's in your best interest to consult a knowledgeable physician even if you have no symptoms of mesothelioma or other asbestos-caused disease. Early diagnosis is especially important because by the time symptoms of mesothelioma appear, usually 20 – 50 years after the initial exposure, the disease is already in an advanced phase. An early diagnosis is necessary for the best prognosis.
Early Diagnosis May Increase Life Expectancy
The importance of early diagnosis for mesothelioma patients is also reinforced by the short life-expectancy of individuals with this disease. If the mesothelioma is at an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis, the average life expectancy is roughly one to two years. If an individual's mesothelioma is "caught" at an early stage, treatment can be initiated that much sooner, and it may be easier to hold off the advance of the cancer.
More Effective, Tolerable Treatment
Mesothelioma may be described as "localized" or "advanced.” The mesothelioma is localized when the cancer cells are found only at the body site where the cancer originated. If the cancer cells have spread beyond that original location, the mesothelioma is considered advanced.
Treating a limited area of cancer is easier than trying to treat cancer that has spread (metastasized) to several sites or throughout the body, and thus an early diagnosis for a mesothelioma patient can enable more effective and more tolerable treatment.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Symptoms of mesothelioma may include the following:
If you're experiencing some of these symptoms (especially chest pain) and you have a history of asbestos exposure, it doesn't mean that you definitely have mesothelioma. However, it's best to seek medical testing for an early diagnosis, no matter what the problem is.
Learn More about the Importance of Early Diagnosis for Mesothelioma Patients
If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be at risk for developing mesothelioma or another asbestos-caused disease, you can contact us for more information .