What Is the Survival Rate of Mesothelioma?
The 5-year survival rate for mesothelioma is 12%, according to data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). That means about 12% of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma are still living 5 years later. However, many patients have survived much longer with surgery and other treatments.
Mesothelioma survival rates are often shared as part of your prognosis (your projected health outlook) and can vary based on the stage of the cancer, where it originally formed, the cell type, and any treatments you receive.
While these numbers tell part of the story, they don’t define your journey. Every patient’s experience is unique, and there’s always hope for progress, personalized care, and a brighter future.
Mesothelioma Survival Statistics
The chart below shows average mesothelioma survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years.
Sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Database and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
These percentages are based on large numbers of past patients who may have nothing in common with you or your loved one. Many factors can influence your prognosis, especially the type of treatment you receive and how your cancer responds.
Is Mesothelioma Survival Rate the Same as Life Expectancy?
No. These are two different metrics that doctors use, though they are related. Mesothelioma life expectancy is the estimated time a patient is projected to live. It’s typically measured in years or months. The average life expectancy for mesothelioma is 12-21 months.
Mesothelioma survival rates provide a high-level snapshot of how many people survive for a certain period after being diagnosed. Neither number can predict exactly how your body will react to treatment.
Get our Free Mesothelioma Guide shipped overnight to learn more about mesothelioma survival rates and life expectancy.
Survival Rates for Each Type of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma survival rates can differ significantly based on where the cancer develops in the body.
Pleural Mesothelioma Survival Rate
Pleural mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and is the most common type of mesothelioma.
The chart below shows overall pleural mesothelioma survival rates.
| Time After Diagnosis | Survival Rate |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 73% |
| 3 years | 23% |
| 5 years | 12% |
| 10 years | 5% |
Source: Moffitt Cancer Center
These survival rates are significantly higher when patients undergo pleural mesothelioma surgery.
There are two major types of pleural mesothelioma surgery:
- Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): Doctors remove the affected lung and all visible tumors from the heart lining, lymph nodes, and diaphragm. In a clinical trial, patients who received an EPP, chemotherapy, and radiation had a 5-year survival rate of 24%.
- Pleurectomy with decortication (P/D): Doctors remove the lung lining and all visible cancer but spare both lungs. The 5-year mesothelioma survival rate is 29% with P/D, according to a report in the Journal of Thoracic Disease.
These surgeries, especially combined with other treatments, offer hope for significantly extending survival in patients battling pleural mesothelioma.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Survival Rate
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). Because it typically doesn’t affect vital organs like the lungs or heart, it’s easier to target with surgery than pleural mesothelioma and has higher survival rates.
Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer survival rates are provided in the chart below.
| Time After Diagnosis | Survival Rate |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 92% |
| 3 years | 74% |
| 5 years | 65% |
| 10 years | 39% |
Source: Moffitt Cancer Center
Patients who get mesothelioma surgery often have higher survival rates. Over two-thirds of patients (69%) are still alive 5 years after cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC (heated chemotherapy), according to the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“Overall survival for this disease is typically in the 5-year range overall. Patients who present early do a lot better than somebody coming to the emergency room with a belly full of fluid with disease.”
Survival Rates for Rare Mesothelioma Types
Pericardial and testicular mesothelioma are two very rare types of this cancer. Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the heart lining (pericardium), and testicular mesothelioma starts in the lining of the testicles.
The mesothelioma survival rates for each type are shown in the table below.
| Time After Diagnosis | Pericardial Mesothelioma Survival Rate | Testicular Mesothelioma Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 26% | Not reported |
| 3 years | 14% | Not reported |
| 5 years | 9% | 49% |
| 10 years | Not reported | 33% |
Sources: Moffitt Cancer Center, Urology journal
The best way to extend your survival is to get treatment from a mesothelioma specialist. Use our Free Doctor Match to connect with top surgeons and oncologists near you.
Mesothelioma Survival Rates by Cancer Stage
One of the most useful ways to analyze patient survival rates is by the stage of the cancer. The stage of mesothelioma refers to how far the cancer has spread at the time of diagnosis.
The chart below shows life expectancy and survival rates for all four stages in patients treated with surgery. Stage 4 mesothelioma survival rates are generally lower than those for earlier stages because the cancer has spread more widely through the body.
| Mesothelioma Stage | Life Expectancy | 2-Year Survival Rate | 5-Year Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | 19.2 months | 39% | 11% |
| Stage 2 | 19.2 months | 39% | 11% |
| Stage 3 | 18.9 months | 41% | 13% |
| Stage 4 | 13.1 months | 31% | 11% |
Source: National Cancer Database (NCDB)
*Note: NCDB data indicates no difference in life expectancy or survival rates between Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Many survivors have defied these statistics. Take John Stahl, for example, a retired construction worker who was diagnosed with stage 4 mesothelioma in 2019. Despite the survival rate of stage 4 mesothelioma being just 11%, John has outlived this statistic and is still thriving more than 6 years later.
Survival Rate by Mesothelioma Cell Type
Mesothelioma tumors are made up of different types of cells, which can impact patient survival. The three mesothelioma cell types are epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic (a mixture of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells).
The epithelial mesothelioma survival rate is the highest since these cells spread more slowly and respond well to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma cells tend to spread rapidly through the body and are more resistant to treatment.
Mesothelioma survival rates with surgery for all three cell types are shown below.
| Cell Type | 2-Year Survival Rate | 5-Year Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Epithelioid | 45% | 14% |
| Sarcomatoid | 15% | 4% |
| Biphasic | 22% | 5% |
Source: NCDB
Call (866) 608-8933 now to get help accessing life-extending treatments. Our registered nurses and Patient Advocates can connect you with the very best mesothelioma doctors for your diagnosis, stage, and cell type.
Other Factors Affecting Mesothelioma Survival Rates
Historically, mesothelioma has mostly affected men over the age of 65. However, anyone can develop mesothelioma, and better testing and awareness are leading to earlier diagnoses in people of all backgrounds. In addition to age, certain demographic factors may help or hinder long-term survival.
The charts below show how gender, age, and genetics affect survival rates for mesothelioma.
Gender
Though most mesothelioma patients are men, women with mesothelioma tend to live longer.
| Time After Diagnosis | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 41.3% | 51% |
| 3 years | 13.6% | 26.5% |
| 5 years | 8% | 18.8% |
Source: NCI SEER Database
Research suggests that hormonal differences, particularly the presence of estrogen, might play a role in better survival outcomes for women. One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Oncology found that increased estrogen may improve survival and provide a potential target for future therapies.
Regardless of a patient’s sex, an early diagnosis and personalized treatment are critical in improving survival rates.
Age
National cancer data show that patients under 50 are more likely to survive mesothelioma for longer. This may be because younger patients are typically in better overall health and are more likely to respond to surgery and other life-extending treatments.
| Age Group | Overall 5-Year Survival Rate |
|---|---|
| Under 50 | 44.7% |
| 50-64 | 21.2% |
| 65 and up | 8.3% |
| All ages | 13.5% |
Source: NCI SEER Database
Genetics
People with mutations in the BAP1 gene (BRCA1-associated protein-1) are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos. These genetic mutations can cause the disease to develop differently, which may affect overall survival.
“I think eventually there will be some sort of genetic testing of the tumors, molecular genetics, that will say these are more favorable for aggressive treatments or this type of chemotherapy or this type of immunotherapy.”
As research advances, new therapies could emerge that target specific genetic mutations that are resistant to standard treatment, potentially improving mesothelioma survival rates.
Improving Mesothelioma Survival
Getting specialized treatment is the best way to improve your survival. Multimodal therapy combines two or more treatment methods and is often the most effective way to control this cancer.
Mesothelioma treatment options include:
- Surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible, preventing further spread and improving quality of life
- Chemotherapy with cancer-killing drugs administered before and/or during surgery
- Immunotherapy to help the body’s immune system identify and attack mesothelioma cells
- Radiation therapy with high-energy waves to damage the DNA of cancer cells and shrink tumors
- Clinical trials testing new or experimental medications and treatment combinations to increase survival rates
Learn more about treatments, doctors, and strategies for improving your survival and quality of life in our Free Mesothelioma Guide.
Mesothelioma Survival Rates Without Treatment
The malignant mesothelioma survival rate for patients who do not undergo treatment is low because this cancer will continue to spread if left untreated.
For example, a study published in Cancer Medicine found that pleural mesothelioma patients who didn’t get surgery had a 5-year survival rate of 5%. The survival rate more than tripled to 16% for patients who did get surgery.
Seeking treatment is the best way to extend your life expectancy. Contact our team for help accessing top mesothelioma treatments at the best cancer centers in the country.
Stories of Mesothelioma Survivors
Countless mesothelioma patients who were originally given little hope have defied the odds, living years beyond their initial prognosis. Below, learn more about two inspiring mesothelioma survivors who outlived expectations and proved that long-term survival is possible.
Arthur “Art” Putt first complained of shortness of breath in early 2018. Following a series of tests, doctors confirmed he had pleural mesothelioma.
Originally given only 6 months to live, Art proved his doctors wrong by undergoing treatment and incorporating a nutrient-rich mesothelioma diet.
“Get as close to your family and friends as you can. Stay positive and keep a positive attitude.”
Julie Gundlach received a shocking peritoneal mesothelioma diagnosis right after losing her father to asbestos lung cancer. He was an electrician who worked with asbestos products and unknowingly brought tiny asbestos fibers home on his clothing, which is how Julie was exposed.
Julie was only in her 30s when she was diagnosed and given 6-12 months to live. But after undergoing a wide range of treatments, her cancer has remained stable. This means it’s no longer growing or spreading.
“Keep the faith and keep putting one foot in front of the other.”
Get Help Surviving Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma survival rates can provide some insight into your prognosis, but they only tell part of the story.
Even with a challenging prognosis, many patients live far longer than expected. At Mesothelioma Hope, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
You can count on us to provide:
- Personalized doctor recommendations
- Dedicated support from our nurses
- Assistance with financial compensation
Call us today at (866) 608-8933 or use our Free Doctor Match to get started.
Mesothelioma Survival Rates FAQs
What is the life expectancy of a person with mesothelioma?
The average life expectancy for mesothelioma is 12-21 months.
However, every mesothelioma case is unique, and some patients have survived over 15 years, defying the odds and embracing life.
With advances in treatment and a strong support system, there’s hope for a better outcome and more time with your loved ones.
Is mesothelioma terminal?
Mesothelioma is a serious condition, but it’s not an automatic death sentence.
While this diagnosis is challenging, many patients are living longer and healthier lives thanks to early detection and advancements in treatment.
Can you survive mesothelioma?
Yes, many people have survived for years after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Although the average 5-year survival rate is 12%, many patients have far outlived their prognosis. Many factors, like the type, stage, cell type, treatments, and more, can all influence how long someone may live after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Getting an early and accurate diagnosis and customized treatment from a specialist can help increase your odds of surviving mesothelioma.
What is the stage 1 mesothelioma survival rate?
Mesothelioma has a 1-year survival rate of about 44%, which means nearly half of those diagnosed are still alive a year later.
However, this one statistic doesn’t define your journey. With the guidance of a skilled mesothelioma specialist and the right treatments, you have the potential to live much longer and enjoy a better quality of life.
Has anyone recovered from mesothelioma?
Although there’s no cure for mesothelioma, many patients have achieved long-term survival, with some living 15 years or more.
These survivors took control of their future by advocating for themselves and actively participating in their treatment. They are proving that it’s possible to reclaim your life and thrive beyond a mesothelioma diagnosis.
If you’re facing mesothelioma, contact us today to learn how we can connect you with local mesothelioma specialists.
Is mesothelioma cancer curable if caught early?
Mesothelioma is not currently considered curable, but if it’s caught early, you have a much better chance of going into remission or potentially being declared cancer-free.
In the early stages, the cancer is typically confined to one area, making it easier to target with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. This can significantly improve survival and offer hope for a longer, healthier life.
How long can you live with mesothelioma?
How long someone can live with mesothelioma is heavily influenced by several key factors, including the type of mesothelioma, the cell type of the tumors, and the treatments the patient receives.
The average life expectancy for a person diagnosed with mesothelioma is typically 12–21 months, and the overall 5-year survival rate is approximately 12%. This means about 12 out of every 100 patients are still living 5 years after their initial diagnosis.
However, these figures represent averages, and they do not define every patient’s journey, as many patients have achieved significantly longer survival times, with some living for 15 years or more.
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