Mesothelioma Survival Rate By Stage
Mesothelioma Survival Rate By Stage
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart and other organs. It’s caused by exposure to asbestos, and is often diagnosed more than 20 years after initial exposure. It’s considered to be an aggressive cancer, with a five-year survival rate of around 10%.
What are the Stages of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is usually divided into four stages, depending on how far it has spread. Stage 1 is the least advanced, while Stage 4 is the most advanced. Each stage also has a different prognosis and survival rate.
Stage 1 Mesothelioma
In Stage 1 mesothelioma, the cancer is confined to one side of the body and has not spread to other organs. The five-year survival rate for Stage 1 mesothelioma is approximately 40%, meaning 40% of patients diagnosed with Stage 1 mesothelioma are still alive five years later. This is the best survival rate of any stage.
Stage 2 Mesothelioma
In Stage 2 mesothelioma, the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes on the same side of the body as the primary tumor. The five-year survival rate for Stage 2 mesothelioma is around 20%.
Stage 3 Mesothelioma
In Stage 3 mesothelioma, the cancer has spread to the other side of the body and may have spread to lymph nodes on both sides. The five-year survival rate for Stage 3 mesothelioma is around 7%.
Stage 4 Mesothelioma
In Stage 4 mesothelioma, the cancer has spread to distant organs and tissues. The five-year survival rate for Stage 4 mesothelioma is less than 1%.