How to Cope With Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare malignant tumor that primarily affects the body cavities. It affects the pleura in 90 percent of cases and is strongly associated with asbestos exposure. Occupations at risk for mesothelioma include auto parts, ceramics, construction, insulation, paper mills, railroads and shipbuilding. Up to 3,000 cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. Coping with the diagnosis involves support, aggressive treatment, and learning about the condition.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Determine the general clinical picture of mesothelioma. It is almost always fatal, although 15 percent of cases follow an indolent course. The median survival period for malignant mesothelioma is 11 months but varies by histologic type. The survival rates for epithelial, sarcomatous and mixed mesothelioma are 12.5, 9.4 and 11 months, respectively.

2. Obtain the prognosis from your doctor. He will have information specific to your case that may not follow the usual course. Make a list of questions so you don't forget anything.

3. Discuss mesothelioma with friends and family members. Most patients agree that getting the subject in the open makes it easier to cope with a terminal illness. Sometimes the patient just wants to be listened to.

4. Join a support group for mesothelioma to talk with other patients going through a similar experience. Your doctor or hospital should be able to help you find the nearest one.

5. Tell children about mesothelioma in an age-appropriate manner. Keep the explanation simple but don't lie or hide information. Wait for the child to ask for more details.

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