Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. It has a very poor prognosis, with most sufferers surviving less than one year after diagnosis. However, some people have been able to live longer with mesothelioma.
Survival Statistics
The average overall survival rate for mesothelioma is 12 to 21 months. However, some people have been able to live longer. According to the National Cancer Institute, the 5-year survival rate is 9%, meaning that 9% of people with mesothelioma will survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.
Longest Survivor
The longest survivor of mesothelioma is believed to be Jock Douglas, a Scottish farmer who was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma in 1988. He underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, and as of 2017, he was still alive and well. He had lived with mesothelioma for over 29 years.
Other Long-Term Survivors
In addition to Jock Douglas, there have been other long-term survivors of mesothelioma. In 2017, a British man named Peter Howarth was reported to have survived for over 20 years with mesothelioma. In 2016, a man named Jerry Anderson was reported to have survived for over 15 years with mesothelioma.
Conclusion
While mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer with a poor prognosis, some people have been able to live longer with the disease. The longest known survivor of mesothelioma is Jock Douglas, who was diagnosed in 1988 and is still alive as of 2017. Other long-term survivors of mesothelioma include Peter Howarth and Jerry Anderson.