The mesothelioma latency period refers to the time between initial exposure to asbestos and a diagnosis. It is primarily a “silent” one because it can take 10-50 years before one is diagnosed with mesothelioma. The latency period can be shorter or longer than the 10-50-year range depending on factors such as one’s gender, age, time of initial exposure to asbestos, and individual health conditions. The Silent Latency Period of Mesothelioma As earlier mentioned, it can take 10-50 years between the initial asbestos exposure and a mesothelioma diagnosis.