Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma: treatments, trials & survival

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused primarily by asbestos exposure. Learn about treatment advances including immunotherapy and available clinical trials.

New Cases (2024)
2,400
5-Yr Survival
12.0%
Annual Deaths
2,300
Trend
Decreasing
See active trials

About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused primarily by asbestos exposure. Learn about treatment advances including immunotherapy and available clinical trials.

According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER database, an estimated 2,400 new cases of mesothelioma will be diagnosed in the United States in 2024, with approximately 2,300 deaths. The overall 5-year relative survival rate is 12.0%.

Source: NCI SEER Data: 1975–2022

Treatment options

Current treatment approaches for mesothelioma depend on the stage at diagnosis, tumor characteristics, and the patient’s overall health. The most common options include:

1
Surgery (Pleurectomy, EPP)
2
Chemotherapy (Pemetrexed + Cisplatin)
3
Immunotherapy (Nivolumab + Ipilimumab)
4
Radiation Therapy
5
Tumor Treating Fields
6
Multimodal Therapy

Treatment recommendations should always be discussed with a qualified oncologist. The options listed above are based on current clinical guidelines and may vary case by case.

Stages

Staging describes the extent of cancer in the body and is crucial for planning the most appropriate treatment:

Stage I Stage II Stage III Stage IV

Known risk factors

Understanding risk factors can support prevention and early detection. Known risk factors for this cancer include:

Asbestos exposure
Erionite exposure
Radiation exposure
SV40 virus (debated)
BAP1 gene mutations
Occupational exposure (construction, shipyard)

Not sure where to start?

A patient navigator familiar with mesothelioma can help you understand your options and connect you with top US hospitals. Free & confidential.

Active clinical trials

Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments not yet widely available. The trials below are sourced in real time from ClinicalTrials.gov:

Frequently asked questions

The 5-year relative survival rate for mesothelioma is approximately 12%. Immunotherapy has improved outcomes, with the nivolumab + ipilimumab combination now being first-line treatment.
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure, often with a latency period of 20-50 years. Occupational exposure in construction, shipbuilding, and mining are common risk factors.
The combination of nivolumab (Opdivo) and ipilimumab (Yervoy) was FDA-approved in 2020 as first-line treatment for unresectable pleural mesothelioma, replacing chemotherapy as the primary option.
Mesothelioma patients may be eligible for compensation through asbestos trust funds, VA benefits (veterans), and personal injury lawsuits. Specialized mesothelioma attorneys can help navigate these options.
You’re not alone

Looking for mesothelioma treatment options?

A patient navigator can help you explore treatment pathways, find clinical trials near you, and connect with specialists who see mesothelioma every day. Free, confidential consultation.

Send a message
Free callback

Talk to a navigator

Leave your details and we’ll call you at your preferred time.