The Maune Raichle Law Firm

Mesothelioma Info

There are many individuals who have previously been exposed to asbestos who are seeking more info about the link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The vast majority of mesotheliomas are caused by asbestos exposure, about 90% of all cases. Medical study has shown over the last decade that about 7% of all individuals exposed to large quantities of asbestos for a long duration will develop mesothelioma at some point in their life. However, about 10 percent of mesothelioma cases are believed to be naturally caused and independent from asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium, a layer of tissue which makes up the 3 major body cavities and provides the lubrication for the movement of internal organs. Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer and can spread to other parts of the body but usually begins as a tumor, or series of tumors, which develops between the two layers of mesothelium. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the disease but it can occur in any of the 3 mesothelial areas.

Old mesothelioma info, or info which is based on old statistics about prognosis and survival rates, continues to persist. Although, it is still quite true that all malignant mesothelioma is potentially lethal, early detection now allows for much more effective treatment. If mesothelioma is detected early, with proper treatment, patients have a 40% five year survival rate, which is much higher than previous estimates.

However, a second factor, which negatively affects survival rates and prognosis, is the fact that many of those who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are already in their 70's and may have other existing conditions which also threaten the patient's life.