{"id":823,"date":"2020-04-17T13:14:50","date_gmt":"2020-04-17T17:14:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/?page_id=823"},"modified":"2025-12-22T10:52:30","modified_gmt":"2025-12-22T15:52:30","slug":"mesothelioma-vs-lung-cancer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/mesothelioma-vs-lung-cancer\/","title":{"rendered":"Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>What Is the Difference Between Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer?<\/h2>\n<p>Lung cancer and <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/\">mesothelioma<\/a> are two different cancers that develop in the chest. They grow and spread in unique ways and require their own treatment approaches.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"\/cancer\/lung-cancer\/\">Lung cancer<\/a> usually grows as one or more solid tumors inside the lungs, each with clear borders. These tumors can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or brain.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma develops differently. It begins as many tiny tumor spots in the thin lining around the lungs or other organs. Over time, these spots can spread and merge, forming a layer of tumors that can wrap around the lung, abdomen, or other areas.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Quick Facts on Lung Cancer vs Mesothelioma<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The most common type of mesothelioma is <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/pleural\/\"><strong>pleural mesothelioma<\/strong><\/a>, which affects the lining of the lungs (pleura).<\/li>\n<li>The most common type of lung cancer is <strong>non-small cell lung cancer<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Mesothelioma is a rare disease, with about 3,000 cases diagnosed annually in the United States.<\/li>\n<li>Close to 230,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer every year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Under a microscope, lung cancer cells and mesothelioma cells look very different. These unique features help doctors make an accurate diagnosis, which is essential for choosing the right treatments and giving patients the best possible outcome.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-29872 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/mesothelioma-vs-lung-cancer.png\" alt=\"Infographic titled &quot;Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer.&quot; Illustration shows the difference in how tumors develop for lung cancer (as solid tumors inside the lungs) and mesothelioma (as sheet-like tumors in the lung lining).\" width=\"760\" height=\"429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/mesothelioma-vs-lung-cancer.png 760w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/mesothelioma-vs-lung-cancer-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Is Mesothelioma Lung Cancer?<\/h3>\n<p>While mesothelioma can develop in tissues around the lungs, <strong>it\u2019s not a type of lung cancer<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma is only caused by breathing in or swallowing asbestos fibers. Once inside the body, these fibers become trapped in organ tissue and cause changes that lead to cancer. Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed 10-50 years after the initial exposure to asbestos.<\/p>\n<p>Lung cancer, on the other hand, has multiple causes and develops differently depending on the underlying cause. Like other types of cancer, lung cancer is a disease in which cells grow out of control and spread to other areas of the body.<\/p>\n<p>There are two types of lung cancer: small-cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, though researchers are finding that far more cases are caused by asbestos exposure than was previously thought.<\/p>\n<p>Get a clearer understanding of mesothelioma vs lung cancer in our <strong>Free Mesothelioma Guide<\/strong>, which covers symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.<\/p>\n<div data-vqueid=\"1361\" class=\"widget widget_oscar-vque default image-right has-img\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"default\">.widget_oscar-vque.default{margin:60px auto;max-width:315px}.widget_oscar-vque.default:first-child{margin-top:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{background:#2F293D;display:block;padding:20px;border-radius:10px;color:#fff;text-decoration:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{margin:0 auto 20px;max-width:150px;width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default .vque-content{font-size:16px;text-align:center}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{display:block;line-height:1;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:5px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:20px;display:block;margin:0 0 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{font-size:16px;text-align:left;list-style:none;max-width:265px;line-height:1.4;margin:15px auto 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li{padding-left:28px;margin-bottom:10px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;font-display:swap;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e904\";border:none;position:absolute;left:0;top:0;background:#0FAEBF;width:20px;height:20px;border-radius:20px;line-height:20px;text-align:center;font-size:12px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:100%}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.widget_oscar-vque.default{max-width:620px}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{padding:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div{display:block;display:flex;align-items:center;flex-wrap:wrap;flex-direction:row-reverse}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div>div{padding:0 25px 0 0;width:41%}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a .vque-content{width:59%;padding:30px;text-align:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{max-width:90%;margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{font-size:16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:24px;margin:0 0 16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{max-width:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:auto}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div{display:block;position:relative;overflow:hidden}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div img{max-width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div{float:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div:first-child{width:27%;padding:30px}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div.vque-content{width:73%;padding-left:0}}<\/style><a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\" title=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide Ad\" data-desktop-image=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\"><div><div><div class=\"image-fade\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"296\" height=\"290\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\" class=\"attachment-Medium size-Medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"Mesothelioma Guide Images\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png 296w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-55x55.png 55w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-102x100.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vque-content\"><strong class=\"heading\">Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide<\/strong><ul>\n<li>Symptoms &amp; staging<\/li>\n<li>Average prognosis<\/li>\n<li>Life-extending treatments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Your Free Guide\">Get Your Free Guide<\/strong><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"symptoms\">Symptoms of Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma<\/h2>\n<p>Mesothelioma is sometimes mistaken for lung cancer because both diseases have similar <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/symptoms\/\">symptoms<\/a>. Additionally, these symptoms usually appear when either cancer is at an advanced stage.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Common symptoms of mesothelioma and lung cancer include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p>\n<ul class=\"columns-2\">\n<li>Chest pain<\/li>\n<li>Coughing up blood<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty breathing or swallowing<\/li>\n<li>Fluid buildup (<a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/pleural\/effusion\/\">pleural effusion<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Persistent cough<\/li>\n<li>Shortness of breath<\/li>\n<li>Swelling in the face<\/li>\n<li>Tiredness<\/li>\n<li>Unexplained weight loss<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<p>In most cases, patients won\u2019t be able to distinguish between the symptoms of lung cancer and mesothelioma on their own. The only sure way to know what type of cancer you have is to get an examination and diagnosis from your doctor.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"diagnosis\">Diagnosing Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer<\/h2>\n<p>Because mesothelioma and lung cancer share certain symptoms, getting an accurate diagnosis is critical. Doctors will look at medical records, do a physical exam, and order tests to determine a <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/\">mesothelioma diagnosis<\/a>. This is an important time to share with your doctor whether you have a history of smoking or asbestos exposure.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Tests for diagnosing mesothelioma vs lung cancer include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/biopsy\/\">Biopsies<\/a> of the lung or chest wall<\/li>\n<li>Bloodwork<\/li>\n<li>Imaging tests (chest X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans)<\/li>\n<li>Sputum cytology (microscopic exam of phlegm to look for cancer cells)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>How cells appear under a microscope tells doctors what type of cancer is present. In addition to examining individual cells, doctors may look at the tumors. Scattered tumor-like nodules that form a sheath around the lung are a sign of mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>The only way to make a definitive diagnosis of mesothelioma is with a biopsy. Since lung cancer is more common, it must be ruled out first. In some cases, <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/misdiagnosis\/\">mesothelioma is misdiagnosed<\/a> as lung cancer, especially when the doctor doesn\u2019t have experience with mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<div class=\"blockquote-w-image \"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/andrea-wolf-md.png\" alt=\"\" \/><blockquote><p>&#8220;With lung cancer, we talk about small cell and non-small cell lung cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer is much more favorable. Similarly, with mesothelioma, we have epithelial cell type and sarcomatoid, which is a much more aggressive form.&#8221;<\/p>\n<footer>&ndash;<cite> Dr. Andrea Wolf, mesothelioma specialist at Mount Sinai Hospital<\/cite><\/footer><\/blockquote><style type=\"text\/css\">.blockquote-w-image{position:relative;margin:40px auto}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{background:none;border-left:none;padding:25px;margin-top:0;padding-bottom:0;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote p{margin-bottom:0}.blockquote-w-image img{width:100px;border:none;border-radius:100%;box-shadow:none;position:relative;margin:0 auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative{margin:60px auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding:25px 25px 25px 80px;padding-bottom:25px;background-color:#E4F4F6}.blockquote-w-image.alternative img{position:absolute;left:20px;top:25px;z-index:1;width:50px;border:1px solid #fff;box-shadow:0 0 10px rgba(34,34,34,0.2);border-radius:100%}.blockquote-w-image.with-border{background:none;border-left:4px solid #0FAEBF}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote{background:none;border-radius:0;padding:10px 25px}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote:before{display:none}@media screen and (min-width: 769px){.blockquote-w-image img{position:absolute;left:0;top:0}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{padding:0 25px 0 125px;min-height:90px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding-left:105px}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote footer cite{font-size:16px}.entry-content .blockquote-w-image.alternative img{width:60px;left:25px}}<\/style><\/div>\n<h3>2026 Update on Diagnosing Lung Cancer vs Mesothelioma<\/h3>\n<p>Scientists continue to study the best way to diagnose malignant pleural mesothelioma and differentiate it from lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.<\/p>\n<p>For example, recently published research shows that infrared spectroscopy (a way to identify chemical substances using infrared radiation) can potentially identify pleural mesothelioma using blood serum and distinguish it from lung cancer.<\/p>\n<p>Other researchers are studying the use of tumor markers and hyaluronic acid (a natural substance in eye and joint fluid) to differentiate the two types of cancer.<\/p>\n<p>An article published in <em>Radiology Case Reports<\/em> analyzed a case involving a 71-year-old man who sought medical care for shortness of breath related to a pleural effusion. Doctors thought he had mesothelioma at first, but a biopsy revealed he really had lung cancer.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>&#8220;Although this patient had the classical history and imaging findings of mesothelioma, histology is always required for confirmation of diagnosis.&#8221;<br \/>\n\u2212 <em>Radiology Case Reports<\/em> study authors<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2 id=\"treatment\">Treating Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer<\/h2>\n<p>Although the two cancers have similar symptoms that treatment aims to alleviate, <a href=\"\/treatment\/\">treatment plans<\/a> for lung cancer and mesothelioma are based on how the cancer develops and spreads. Both cancers usually require two or more types of treatment, which is called multimodal therapy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Common treatment options for mesothelioma and lung cancer include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/surgery\/\">Surgery<\/a>:<\/strong> If the cancer is caught before it has spread too far, doctors may be able to remove the tumors.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/chemotherapy\/\">Chemotherapy<\/a>:<\/strong> These drugs travel throughout the body to destroy cancer cells.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/immunotherapy\/\">Immunotherapy<\/a>:<\/strong> This newer treatment stimulates the immune system to identify and kill cancer cells.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/radiation\/\">Radiation<\/a>:<\/strong> Radiation therapy can shrink tumors to help relieve symptoms.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/targeted-therapies\/\">Targeted therapy<\/a>:<\/strong> These drugs work differently from chemotherapy medications and typically have less severe side effects. They are often used for advanced forms of cancer, either alone or with chemotherapy.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/treatment\/palliative\/\">Palliative care<\/a>:<\/strong> These treatments can help improve quality of life and relieve symptoms. Palliative care may be the only treatment option available for late-stage mesothelioma or lung disease, but it can be extremely helpful at any stage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you\u2019re exploring treatment options or need guidance on what comes next, our <strong>Free Doctor Match<\/strong> can connect you with specialists who treat mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer.<\/p>\n<div id=\"25223\" class=\"one-off-25223 widget widget_oscar-vque one-off\" data-vqueid=\"25223\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"one-off\">.one-off-25223{margin:60px auto}.one-off-25223 a{box-shadow:0 4px 4px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.25);display:block;background:#e4f4f6;padding:20px 25px 200px;text-decoration:none;color:inherit;position:relative;overflow:hidden;max-width:360px;margin:0 auto}.one-off-25223 a::before{background:#0FAEBF;border-radius:50% 50% 0 0;content:'';position:absolute;bottom:0;height:19%;width:135%;left:-60px;z-index:0}.one-off-25223 .vque-content,.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{z-index:1;position:relative}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{width:100%;position:absolute;left:-10px;bottom:-15px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap img{position:absolute;bottom:0;width:100%;max-width:unset;left:0}.one-off-25223 .heading{font-size:27px;line-height:33px;text-align:center;display:block;max-width:340px;margin:5px auto 25px}.one-off-25223 ul{list-style:none;margin:-10px auto 22px;text-align:left;font-size:16px;line-height:26px}.one-off-25223 ul li{margin:0 0 15px;position:relative;padding-left:35px}.one-off-25223 ul li::before{font-family:\"mesohope\"!important;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;content:\"\\e904\";background:#0FAEBF;width:21px;height:21px;display:block;position:absolute;left:0;top:4px;border-radius:50%;color:#fff;font-size:11px;text-align:center;line-height:21px}.one-off-25223 p{text-align:center}.one-off-25223 .button{padding:12px 16px;display:block}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.one-off-25223 a{max-width:620px;padding:30px 30px 35px;border-radius:0 0 4px 4px}.one-off-25223 a::before{border-radius:50%;height:155%;width:150%;right:-550px;left:unset;bottom:-295px}.one-off-25223 .heading{text-align:left;margin:2px 0 25px;max-width:unset;font-size:24px}.one-off-25223 ul{margin:-7px 0 30px;max-width:365px;line-height:23px}.one-off-25223 ul li::before{top:1px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{max-width:unset;position:absolute;right:-25px;bottom:-35px;margin:0 0 -2px;left:unset;width:380px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap img{position:relative;bottom:0;left:0;width:380px}.one-off-25223 .button{display:inline-block;padding:14px 25px}.one-off-25223 p{text-align:left}}@media screen and (min-width:1150px){.one-off-25223 a{padding:30px}}<\/style><a href=\"\/get-matched\/\" title=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor Ad\"><div>\r\n    <div class=\"vque-content\">\r\n        <strong class=\"heading\">Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor<\/strong>\r\n        <ul>\r\n            <li>Find top specialists near you<\/li>\r\n            <li>Seek compensation for travel & care<\/li>\r\n            <li>Get medical guidance<\/li>\r\n        <\/ul>\r\n        <p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Matched Now\">Get Matched Now<\/strong><\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"image-wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Doctors-ad.png\" alt=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor\" class=\"lazyload\" ><\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>Compensation Options for Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer<\/h2>\n<p>Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may be eligible for compensation from lawsuits, asbestos trust funds, grants, insurance, or VA benefits. Because mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, patients can pursue <a href=\"\/legal\/compensation\/\">compensation<\/a> against the corporations that used this dangerous substance and put people at risk.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Mesothelioma compensation options include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"\/legal\/lawsuit\/\"><strong>Mesothelioma lawsuits<\/strong><\/a>: Filed against negligent manufacturers of asbestos-containing products, these typically award patients <strong>$1 million or more<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/legal\/asbestos-trust-funds\/\"><strong>Asbestos trust funds<\/strong><\/a>: There\u2019s <strong>over $30 billion<\/strong> available across dozens of trusts set up by bankrupt corporations to help people hurt by asbestos. This compensation can be accessed without filing a lawsuit.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/veterans\/va-benefits\/\"><strong>VA benefits<\/strong><\/a>: Veterans with mesothelioma usually receive monthly VA disability compensation worth <strong>$4,158.17<\/strong> per month, as well as free or inexpensive health care, and additional payouts.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Lung cancer patients who think their disease may have been caused by asbestos exposure may also qualify for compensation through asbestos trust fund claims, lawsuits, or VA benefits. Even if you aren\u2019t aware of asbestos exposure in your past, certain tests may be able to tell if your cancer was caused by asbestos.<\/p>\n<p>Getting compensation can help pay for treatment costs and other unexpected expenses after a diagnosis of mesothelioma or lung cancer. <strong>Call <a href=\"tel:+18666088933\" title=\"Click to call (866) 608-8933\" class=\"in-content-tel-link\" data-ce-category=\"Click to Call\" data-ce-label=\"(866) 608-8933\">(866) 608-8933<\/a><\/strong> now to find out your eligibility for compensation.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"second\">Get Support for Asbestos Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma<\/h2>\n<p>Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult, especially without an experienced doctor who knows what to look for. Getting a second opinion on mesothelioma or lung cancer can make all the difference in your treatment plan and future health.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The team at Mesothelioma Hope can help you:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Understand your diagnosis<\/li>\n<li>Meet with a specialist for a second opinion<\/li>\n<li>Explore your treatment options<\/li>\n<li>Get financial support for expenses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Whether you already have a diagnosis or are just starting your journey, our nurses and Patient Advocates are here for you. Give us a call at <a href=\"tel:+18666088933\" title=\"Click to call (866) 608-8933\" class=\"in-content-tel-link\" data-ce-category=\"Click to Call\" data-ce-label=\"(866) 608-8933\">(866) 608-8933<\/a> or get our <a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\">Free Mesothelioma Guide<\/a> to learn more.<\/p>\n<div class=\"faq-wrap\"><h2 class=\"faq-wrap-heading\">Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer FAQs  <\/h2><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"1\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What is the difference between lung cancer and mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the mesothelium, the thin tissue that covers the lungs and other internal organs. Lung cancer, however, develops inside or on the lungs.<\/p>\n<p>Both cancers may share similar symptoms, but they affect the body in different ways. This is why it\u2019s important to see a specialist who can make an accurate diagnosis.<\/p>\n<p>Get a second opinion on your lung disease, or get help finding treatment for your cancer, with our <a href=\"\/get-matched\/\">Free Doctor Match<\/a> service.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"2\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What type of lung cancer is mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>While mesothelioma can develop in tissues around the lungs, it\u2019s not a type of lung cancer. Pleural mesothelioma, which forms in the lung lining, is the most common type of this cancer (though it can also develop in the abdomen, heart, or testes).<\/p>\n<p>Even though mesothelioma and lung cancer can feel similar for patients, the diseases themselves behave differently and are managed in different ways.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"3\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Is pleural mesothelioma lung cancer?<\/h3><div><p><strong>No<\/strong>. Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lungs, not the lung itself. It has similar symptoms to lung cancer, like persistent coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath, but isn\u2019t technically lung cancer.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"4\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Can you have mesothelioma and lung cancer?<\/h3><div><p>It\u2019s rare to have both mesothelioma and lung cancer, but it has happened, according to <em>Respiratory Medicine Case Reports<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Exposure to asbestos can cause several types of cancers and other illnesses, so it\u2019s important to pay attention to your health and see your doctor if you\u2019re having any respiratory symptoms. For help finding a mesothelioma specialist or learning your treatment options after a diagnosis, <a href=\"\/about\/contact\/\">contact our team<\/a> today.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"5\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Is mesothelioma non-small cell lung cancer?<\/h3><div><p>Mesothelioma is <strong>not<\/strong> the same as non-small cell lung cancer. Mesothelioma develops in the lining around the lungs, not in the lung tissue itself. It\u2019s caused by asbestos exposure and behaves differently from typical lung cancers, which is why doctors classify it as its own separate condition.<\/p>\n<p>Non-small cell lung cancer starts inside the lungs and is the most common form of lung cancer. It has different risk factors, treatment approaches, and outcomes compared with mesothelioma. Even though both conditions affect the chest and can cause similar symptoms, they are medically distinct diseases.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What is the difference between lung cancer and mesothelioma?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the mesothelium, the thin tissue that covers the lungs and other internal organs. Lung cancer, however, develops inside or on the lungs.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Both cancers may share similar symptoms, but they affect the body in different ways. This is why it\u2019s important to see a specialist who can make an accurate diagnosis.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Get a second opinion on your lung disease, or get help finding treatment for your cancer, with our Free Doctor Match service.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What type of lung cancer is mesothelioma?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;While mesothelioma can develop in tissues around the lungs, it\u2019s not a type of lung cancer. Pleural mesothelioma, which forms in the lung lining, is the most common type of this cancer (though it can also develop in the abdomen, heart, or testes).&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Even though mesothelioma and lung cancer can feel similar for patients, the diseases themselves behave differently and are managed in different ways.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"Is pleural mesothelioma lung cancer?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;No&lt;\/strong&gt;. Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lungs, not the lung itself. It has similar symptoms to lung cancer, like persistent coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath, but isn\u2019t technically lung cancer.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"Can you have mesothelioma and lung cancer?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;It\u2019s rare to have both mesothelioma and lung cancer, but it has happened, according to &lt;em&gt;Respiratory Medicine Case Reports&lt;\/em&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Exposure to asbestos can cause several types of cancers and other illnesses, so it\u2019s important to pay attention to your health and see your doctor if you\u2019re having any respiratory symptoms. For help finding a mesothelioma specialist or learning your treatment options after a diagnosis, contact our team today.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"Is mesothelioma non-small cell lung cancer?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma is &lt;strong&gt;not&lt;\/strong&gt; the same as non-small cell lung cancer. Mesothelioma develops in the lining around the lungs, not in the lung tissue itself. It\u2019s caused by asbestos exposure and behaves differently from typical lung cancers, which is why doctors classify it as its own separate condition.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Non-small cell lung cancer starts inside the lungs and is the most common form of lung cancer. It has different risk factors, treatment approaches, and outcomes compared with mesothelioma. Even though both conditions affect the chest and can cause similar symptoms, they are medically distinct diseases.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}}]}<\/script><style type=\"text\/css\">.faq-wrap{background:#E4F4F6;padding:20px 15px;margin:40px -15px}.faq-wrap:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq{background:#fff;padding:15px;border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0px 20px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.03);margin:15px 0 0 0}.faq-wrap .faq:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap .faq .faq-heading{color:#100134;font-size:21px;margin-bottom:15px}.faq-wrap .faq p{margin-bottom:20px;line-height:1.5}.faq-wrap .faq p:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more{color:#248AFF;display:block;padding-right:17px;text-align:right;position:relative;line-height:1}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited{color:#248AFF}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited:hover,.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:hover{color:#34d}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:after{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e905\";position:absolute;right:0;top:3px}h2.faq-wrap-heading{margin-bottom:25px}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.faq-wrap{padding:25px 15px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.faq-wrap{border-radius:10px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding:25px}.faq-wrap .faq{padding:25px}.faq-heading{font-size:24px}}<\/style><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Is the Difference Between Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer? Lung cancer and mesothelioma are two different cancers that develop in the chest. They grow and spread in unique ways and require their own treatment approaches. Lung cancer usually grows as one or more solid tumors inside the lungs, each with clear borders. These tumors can&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":1152,"parent":17,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-823","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/823","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=823"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/823\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1152"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=823"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}