High Costs of Mesothelioma Treatments

The cost of mesothelioma treatment can vary widely depending on factors. These factors include the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, the chosen treatment approach, and geographical location. Here’s a breakdown of the major cost categories:

Diagnostic Costs

Before treatment can begin, patients must undergo a series of diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and determine its stage. These tests can include:

• • Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans)
  • Blood tests
  • Biopsies

Depending on the extent of the testing required, these diagnostic procedures can cost from $7,000 to $12,000 or more.

Surgery

Surgical interventions are often a critical component of mesothelioma treatment. The most common surgical procedures include:

• • Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D)
  • Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP)
  • Cytoreductive Surgery with HIPEC (for peritoneal mesothelioma)

Surgical costs can range from $20,000 to $40,000 or more, not including hospital stays and post-operative care.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a standard treatment for mesothelioma, often used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment. The cost of chemotherapy can vary based on the drugs used, the treatment duration, and the administration method. On average, a single round of chemotherapy can cost between $30,000 to $40,000. Most patients undergo multiple rounds, significantly increasing the cost over time.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may be used to shrink tumors, alleviate pain, or as part of a multimodal treatment approach. The cost of radiation therapy can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the type of radiation and the number of sessions required.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is an emerging treatment option for mesothelioma that harnesses the power of the patient’s immune system to fight cancer cells. While promising, these treatments can be expensive, potentially exceeding $100,000 annually.

Hospital Stays

Inpatient hospital stays can quickly add significant costs, whether for surgery, treatment complications, or symptom management. Hospital room charges alone can range from $3,000 to $10,000 per day, depending on the level of care required.

Medications

In addition to chemotherapy drugs, mesothelioma patients often require various medications for pain management, the control of side effects, and supportive care. These ongoing costs can add thousands of dollars to the overall treatment expenses.

Home Health Care and Palliative Care

As the disease progresses, many patients require home health care services or palliative care to manage symptoms and maintain their quality of life. These services can cost between $3,000 to $10,000 per month or more, depending on the level of care required.

Travel and Accommodation

Many mesothelioma patients need to travel to specialized cancer centers for treatment. Travel costs, accommodations for patients and caregivers, and meals can add thousands of dollars to the overall expenses.

Lost Income and Productivity

While not a direct medical expense, the loss of income resulting from the inability to work during treatment is a significant financial burden for many patients and their families.