Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which can take decades for outward symptoms to appear. Because of this, the prognosis for many mesothelioma patients is poor as by the time they have been diagnosed, the mesothelioma is at an advanced stage.
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There are ways that you can improve your mesothelioma prognosis. Obviously, the earlier you are diagnosed, the better you’ll respond to treatment. Speaking to your doctor about any symptoms you might suspect are due to the disease is a must, particularly if you have worked or lived in close proximity to asbestos at any point in your life.
There are biomarker tests available for people who are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, so be sure to ask your healthcare team about them.
According to mesothelioma.com, prognosis following diagnosis depends on many factors, including the age and gender of the patient, the stage of the mesothelioma, and their overall health will all play an important part in determining prognosis. While you cannot change your age or gender, there are many things that you can do to improve your health. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are a must as well as giving up smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
Treatment efficacy will depend on how advanced the mesothelioma is. The earlier the stage, the more successful treatment is likely to be. Later stage treatment tends to be palliative and is used to improve quality of life rather than extend it.
Clinical trials are a good way of getting new treatments and therapies while helping important research into the disease. Speak to your healthcare team to see if you’re eligible to join a clinical trial near you.
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