Peritoneal Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, affecting the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). Unlike pleural mesothelioma, patients diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma often have more promising outcomes—especially with early detection and treatment.
Our law firm proudly represents industrial workers and military veterans who were exposed to asbestos and later developed mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Average Life Expectancy with Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma has a better prognosis than other forms of mesothelioma when treated aggressively. The average life expectancy varies widely based on treatment and other health factors:
- Without treatment: 6–12 months
- With surgery and HIPEC (heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy): Up to 5 years or more
- With multimodal therapy: Many patients exceed the 5-year survival mark
A study published in the *Annals of Surgical Oncology* found that the 5-year survival rate for patients undergoing surgery with HIPEC could reach over 50% when performed by experienced specialists.
Why Veterans and Industrial Workers Are Most at Risk
Peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by the ingestion of microscopic asbestos fibers—often from environments where asbestos was handled or disturbed. The risk is especially high for:
- U.S. Navy veterans — Asbestos was widely used in ships and shipyards
- Pipefitters, boilermakers, and machinists
- Refinery, chemical plant, and factory workers
- Insulators and construction workers
These occupations involved daily exposure to asbestos in insulation, gaskets, brake linings, fireproofing materials, and industrial machinery. Many workers were never warned about the risks.
Factors That Influence Life Expectancy
Several key factors affect the life expectancy of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma:
- Stage at diagnosis – Early-stage disease responds better to surgery
- Cell type: Epithelioid cells respond more favorably than sarcomatoid
- Age and overall health
- Access to specialized treatment centers
- Smoking history and co-existing medical conditions
The most effective treatment involves cytoreductive surgery combined with HIPEC, which delivers heated chemotherapy directly into the abdomen to kill remaining cancer cells.
Legal Help for Veterans and Workers Diagnosed with Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Veterans and workers diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma may be eligible for:
- Compensation through asbestos trust funds
- VA benefits and service-connected disability claims
- Personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits against product manufacturers
Our attorneys have decades of experience holding asbestos companies accountable for exposing workers to deadly conditions. We've recovered millions for boilermakers, insulators, pipefitters, and veterans across the country.
What is the average life expectancy for peritoneal mesothelioma?
The average life expectancy for peritoneal mesothelioma is 12 to 60 months, depending on stage, cell type, and treatment. Some patients who receive surgery and heated chemotherapy (HIPEC) live 5 years or more.
Can peritoneal mesothelioma be treated?
Yes. The most effective treatment is cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC. This combined approach can significantly improve survival, especially in early-stage patients with epithelioid cell type.
Who is most at risk for peritoneal mesothelioma?
Veterans and industrial workers such as boilermakers, pipefitters, insulators, and refinery workers are at higher risk due to prolonged asbestos exposure in the workplace.
Is there compensation available for peritoneal mesothelioma victims?
Yes. Patients may be eligible for compensation through asbestos trust funds, VA benefits, and personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits. Legal help is available for qualifying workers and veterans.
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We understand how devastating a mesothelioma diagnosis can be. That's why we fight relentlessly for our clients and their families. You only pay if we win your case.
Call us at 1-800-799-7914 or contact your mesothelioma lawyer at Boling Law Firm today.
We're here to help veterans and America's industrial workforce get the justice and support they deserve.