COMMON PROGNOSIS QUESTIONS

Mesothelioma has a relatively poor prognosis compared to other diseases, but there is still hope to outlive a prognosis. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, read on for answers to the most frequently asked questions about mesothelioma prognosis.

What is a prognosis?

A prognosis is an estimate of how a patient’s diagnosis will affect their quality of life and how long the doctor projects the patient will live.

What does a prognosis mean for me?

It’s important to note that a prognosis is a tool doctors use to help patients understand how a terminal disease, like mesothelioma, may affect them. It also helps a specialists determine what treatment options are available to improve a patient’s chances of recovery.

How can I improve my prognosis?

The first step you can take towards improving your prognosis is speaking with a mesothelioma specialist. A qualified specialist can draw on their experience in treating mesothelioma and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific diagnosis.

If you’ve been diagnosed with advanced-stage mesothelioma, they can also help you get access to new treatments being developed in clinical trials.

In addition to seeking treatment from a specialist, you can improve your prognosis by eating healthy and being active. A healthy body responds better to treatment, which helps support the care you receive from your specialist.

What factors affect a prognosis?

There are a number of factors that can affect a prognosis. The location of your mesothelioma, its cell type and cancer stage all play a central role in determining your individual prognosis.

Other factors include your age, overall health, your gender and whether or not you smoke. Your mesothelioma specialist can help you understand how these factors will affect your treatment options.

How accurate is a prognosis?

A prognosis is only an estimate based on what doctors know about your specific type of mesothelioma. It’s also based on statistics gathered from patients with a similar diagnoses and medical circumstances. A prognosis can change, especially if you’re receiving treatment from a top mesothelioma specialist.

Are there any mesothelioma survivors?

Many people have beat the odds and are still surviving their diagnosis to this day. Some have been living with mesothelioma for over a decade! Get inspired today and read their stories.

What did they do to survive?

Each survivor faced their diagnosis head on with the support of their loved ones and a team of experienced mesothelioma specialists. They took charge of their prognosis and sought out the best treatment at top cancer centers.

Are there any resources for mesothelioma survivors?

Survivors can find support over the phone, in person or on the Internet. Head over to our Support Groups page to find out how to connect with other survivors and people who truly care.