How Long Does It Take to Develop Mesothelioma After Asbestos Exposure?

A diagnosis of mesothelioma often comes as a shock, particularly when the individual hasn’t worked around asbestos for decades. This is due to the disease’s unique and exceptionally long latency period — the period of time between the initial exposure to asbestos fibers and the onset of clinical symptoms.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, our mesothelioma attorneys have spent decades representing workers and families in Pennsylvania and New Jersey who are only now discovering the life-changing consequences of exposure that occurred 30, 40, or even 50 years ago.

Understanding the Latency Period for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that attacks the mesothelium, the protective lining surrounding internal organs. Because asbestos fibers are microscopic and needle-like, they can remain lodged in this tissue for a lifetime, causing gradual cellular damage and the eventual formation of malignant tumors.
Source: The American Lung Association

What Is the Latency Period From First Exposure to Asbestos to Contracting Mesothelioma?

According to research data, the median latency period for mesothelioma is approximately 22.8 years. However, many patients do not experience symptoms until 30 to 50 years after their initial contact with the mineral. Interestingly, women often experience a latency period that is roughly 29 percent longer than that of men.

Impact of Asbestos Exposure Levels

A common misconception is that a higher intensity of asbestos exposure will lead to a shorter mesothelioma latency period. However, research indicates that greater exposure does not necessarily result in a faster onset of the disease. Even short-term or secondary asbestos exposure (such as a family member washing asbestos-laden work clothes) can lead to a mesothelioma diagnosis decades later.

Jobs With the Highest Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Due to its widespread use, it is impossible to provide an exhaustive list of all circumstances that led to asbestos occupational exposure. However, industries that involve manufacturing, construction, transportation, and power generation carry particularly high risks.

The following careers and trades often place workers at a higher risk of inhaling asbestos dust:

Sources: The National Cancer Institute and Environmental Protection Agency

Why Mesothelioma Symptoms Are Hard to Detect Early

The slow-growing nature of the disease makes early-stage catching difficult. Symptoms typically only emerge at the very end of the long latency period. Common signs that finally lead to a diagnosis include:

• Persistent coughing or shortness of breath
• Chest or abdominal pain and swelling
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue

Because these symptoms often mimic common respiratory infections or the natural effects of aging, many patients receive a diagnosis only after the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
Source: American Cancer Society

Know Your Legal Rights in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

Because mesothelioma takes so long to develop, Pennsylvania and New Jersey apply the “discovery rule” to personal injury claims.

Pennsylvania: You generally have 2 years from the date of your diagnosis to file a lawsuit.

New Jersey: Similarly, the statute of limitations is 2 years from the date you discover (or should have discovered) the illness.

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we maintain an extensive library of evidence regarding asbestos use in local shipyards, power plants, and industrial sites. We work with medical experts to confirm that your illness was caused by asbestos exposure, helping you secure the compensation needed for medical bills and lost wages.

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma after asbestos exposure, you don’t have to face this alone.
Cohen, Placitella & Roth helps patients and families recover the compensation they deserve from asbestos manufacturers and trusts — at no upfront cost.

Call (888) 324-7683 for a free case evaluation.