Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, heart, stomach and other body organs. It typically develops in individuals who have experienced exposure to asbestos fibers. Unfortunately, it may take decades for symptoms of mesothelioma to appear.
Although mesothelioma is not always a fatal illness, most victims in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge regions do not get a diagnosis until it is too late for life-saving treatments. As such, medical treatment may focus on patient comfort and quality of life. Regardless, treatments for this life-threatening condition are expensive.
What treatments are available?
According to the Mayo Clinic, several treatments exist. Depending on the severity of your condition, doctors may suggest one or a combination of these three treatments.
- Surgery. When diagnosed early, surgery may remove the mesothelioma entirely or relieve some of the discomfort patients experience.
- Chemotherapy. Doctors may prescribe chemotherapy alone or in conjunction with other treatments like surgery.
- Radiation. Radiation is often administered after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reports that not much information regarding the costs of treatment is available. However, the NCBI did offer a few estimates regarding treatment costs imposed upon the national healthcare system.
- The estimated total cost of hospital care reached nearly $44,220,000 in 2014.
- The estimated total cost of inpatient care reached nearly $42,000,000 in 2014.
- The estimated total cost of chemotherapy ranged from $306 to $8,774.
We also want you to know about the financial awards (also provided by the NCBI) that some mesothelioma victims have acquired. The awards range from just over $100,000 for a flooring installer to $900,000 for an auto mechanic.
As you can see, you have a chance to find justice and provide for your family after a mesothelioma diagnosis. We urge you to learn more about your options if you or a loved one suffers from this devastating illness.