Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare malignant cancer that develops in a membrane, usually the lung. Very rarely, mesothelioma can develop in the abdomen, in which case it is called peritoneal cancer.

The main cause of mesothelioma is contact with asbestos, which is why it is also referred to as ‘asbestos cancer’. Mesothelioma often develops as late as 20 to 60 years after you came into contact with asbestos. This is why the cancer is also known as ‘asbestos cancer’.

The most common symptoms of malignant pleural mesothelioma include:

• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• coughing
• losing weight
• fatigue

There is currently no treatment to cure mesothelioma. All treatments, ranging from chemotherapy to immunotherapy to radiotherapy, aim to inhibit, reduce or prevent the symptoms of the disease.

In Belgium, malignant pleural mesothelioma is currently recognised as an occupational disease, which means that you can apply for compensation (a financial allowance) from the Asbestos Fund.

Latest publication date: 02/08/2024
Supervising author: Dr Lamont Jan