Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is most often linked to asbestos exposure and remains a serious public health issue in the United States. While treatments are advancing, supportive care — including healthy nutrition — plays a key role in improving quality of life for patients.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma develops when asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, lodging in the mesothelium, a protective lining around internal organs. Over time, these fibers cause irritation, scarring, and eventually cancerous growth.
The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs, followed by peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen) and rare cases of pericardial mesothelioma (heart lining).
Current Situation in the United States
Around 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed annually in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Because symptoms may take 20–50 years to appear after asbestos exposure, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages.
Men, particularly those who worked in high-risk industries before the 1980s, make up the majority of patients.
Causes and Risk Factors
The leading cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. High-risk environments include:
- Construction sites using insulation and roofing materials.
- Shipyards and naval vessels built before the 1980s.
- Factories producing asbestos-based products, such as brake linings and textiles.
Family members can also be at risk if asbestos fibers were carried home on clothing.
Treatment Options
Although there is no single cure for mesothelioma, a combination of therapies can extend life expectancy and reduce symptoms:
- Surgery: Removing tumors or affected tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Medications such as pemetrexed and cisplatin help slow disease progression.
- Radiation therapy: Used to target and shrink tumors.
- Immunotherapy: A growing field, helping the body’s immune system fight cancer cells.
- Clinical trials: Offering access to new therapies under investigation.
Nutrition and Fruits That Support Mesothelioma Patients
Diet does not cure mesothelioma, but certain foods may strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support overall health during treatment. Fruits rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber can be especially beneficial.
Three Fruits That May Help Support Patients:
- Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, blueberries may reduce oxidative stress, which can help protect healthy cells during chemotherapy or radiation.
- Oranges (and citrus fruits) – High in vitamin C, oranges support immune function and may aid tissue repair. Their natural anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce treatment-related fatigue.
- Apples – Rich in fiber and polyphenols, apples support digestive health and may lower inflammation, helping patients manage side effects such as nausea or appetite loss.
While these fruits are not treatments, they complement medical care and can be part of a balanced diet recommended by healthcare professionals.
Final Thoughts
Mesothelioma remains a challenging cancer, closely linked to past asbestos exposure. Modern treatments — combined with supportive nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices — can improve both survival and quality of life. Including antioxidant-rich fruits such as blueberries, oranges, and apples may help patients better cope with the demands of therapy.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Nutrition should be seen as supportive care, not a substitute for medical treatment. Patients should always consult their healthcare team for individualized advice.
