We provide free information about the disease, resources and support to help you understand, fight and overcome mesothelioma.
Get Help NowPleural mesothelioma is the most common of the four types of malignant mesothelioma cancer, accounting for about 75 percent of all cases of the disease. All four types share one similar trait: They are rare and aggressive forms of cancer. That means it is important to pinpoint a diagnosis as soon as you sense something is wrong – and if you do get a mesothelioma diagnosis, you should settle on treatment options as soon as possible.
The primary cause of pleural mesothelioma cancer is exposure to asbestos. While asbestos is a natural mineral, it is toxic for humans. It has properties that allow it to be resistant to heat and fire, but it also has a makeup that is harmful to people when its fibers are ingested or inhaled.
The typical latency period — the time from when someone is exposed to asbestos to the time someone is diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma cancer — is 20 years or longer. There are few, if any, signs of cancer in the lining of the lung until it's almost too late.
The one-year survival rate of pleural mesothelioma cancer is 38 percent. These statistics reflect the fact that too many people never see a mesothelioma-specific doctor who is a specialist with experience treating the disease. Early detection and treatment is vital.
A pleural mesothelioma diagnosis involves the expertise of specialists, including radiologists, surgeons, oncologists and others who will evaluate symptoms, perform numerous scans, biopsies, blood tests and other exams to accurately determine the presence and stage of the disease.
Treatment for pleural mesothelioma continues to evolve as clinical trials and medical researchers strive to improve traditional techniques, such as surgery and chemotherapy, and discover emerging treatments like immunotherapy or alternative treatments to find a cure for the illness.
While oncologists may have experience dealing with several cancers, pleural mesothelioma is a rare disease, and it requires a specialist for the best treatment and outcome. Specialists with years working with the cancer are better prepared for the challenges you may encounter.
Our complimentary informational packet is available to you at any time. This collection of resources gives you the most up-to-date information about mesothelioma and treatment, and it helps you understand all about pleural mesothelioma cancer.
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Learn even more about pleural mesothelioma cancer and empower yourself with the knowledge, tips and tools found in the support books we can send you free of charge. Request these books for free!
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Order A WristbandOur Patient Advocates help patients and their families get the help they need. They also point patients to pleural mesothelioma cancer specialists in their area through our Doctor Match Program. Our Veterans Department helps those who served our country file for VA benefits and other financial assistance. From emotional support to treatment referrals, we are here to provide one-on-one guidance for your unique needs.
Our Patient Advocates are an invaluable resource to those who need help understanding this complicated disease and how to withstand it. From emotional support to treatment referrals, we’re here to provide one-on-one guidance for your unique needs.
When someone who served our country is diagnosed with any form of mesothelioma cancer, our experienced Veterans Department engages. We work with veterans and their families to gain access to financial benefits and more help from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
We travel the country getting to know the best pleural mesothelioma specialists and treatment centers. We listen to your needs and make recommendations based upon your location, diagnosis and other factors. Let our team of Patient Advocates find a specialist near you.
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