Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma mainly affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), although it can also affect the lining of the tummy (peritoneal mesothelioma), heart or testicles.

Most cases are diagnosed in people aged 60 to 80 and men are affected more commonly than women.

Unfortunately, it’s rarely possible to cure mesothelioma, although treatment can help control the symptoms.


Most cases are diagnosed in people aged 60 to 80 and men are affected more commonly than women.

Unfortunately, it’s rarely possible to cure mesothelioma, although treatment can help control the symptoms.


Unfortunately, it’s rarely possible to cure mesothelioma, although treatment can help control the symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of mesothelioma tend to develop gradually over time. They typically don’t appear until several decades after exposure to asbestos.

Symptoms of mesothelioma in the lining of the lungs include:

chest pain shortness of breath fatigue (extreme tiredness) a high temperature (fever) and sweating, particularly at night a persistent cough loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss clubbed (swollen) fingertips

Symptoms of mesothelioma in the lining of the tummy include:

tummy pain or swelling feeling or being sick loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss diarrhoea or constipation

Speak to your GP if you have any persistent or worrying symptoms. Tell them about any exposure to asbestos you may have had in the past.