Published Mar 31, 2021

Remembering American Fashion Designer Liz Claiborne Who Died Nearly 14 Years Ago From Peritoneal Cancer — What is This Rare Type of Cancer?

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Remembering Liz Claiborne

Late American fashion designer Liz Claiborne passed away nearly 14 years ago due to a battle with peritoneal cancer.
Peritoneal cancer is a type of cancer which spreads throughout the lining of the abdomen, and has links to other types of cancers including ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer and mesothelioma.
Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease and type of tumor, but can include surgery (if eligible), oral or intravenous chemotherapy or targeted drugs.

Nearly 14 years ago, iconic American fashion designer Liz Claiborne passed away due to a battle with peritoneal cancer. This rare abdominal cancer may be a mystery to many of us, but there are ways to recognize symptoms and learn about available treatments.

Claiborne passed away on June 26, 2007 at the age of 78 due to a battle with peritoneal cancer. The historic fashion designer was known for introducing stylish yet affordable clothing for the everyday working American woman, and created an empire as a result of her designs. The company — the first founded by a woman to be included in the Fortune 500 — went public in 1981, according to Reuters. However, many people may not know that she fought through a very rare cancer for nearly 10 years while still creating and designing.

In May 1997, Claiborne’s doctors told her that she had signs of a rare cancer spreading across her abdomen. This is commonly referred to as peritoneal cancer. The disease was discovered during a Pap smear, which also helps detect signs of cervical cancer. Claiborne immediately started treatment to delay the cancer from spreading. Ten years later in June 2007, Claiborne passed away from the disease.

What is Peritoneal Cancer?

Peritoneal cancer is a type of cancer which spreads throughout the lining of the abdomen, and has links to other types of cancers including ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, and mesothelioma. It is considered an extremely rare type of cancer, affecting only 10% of women, and patients are often given only a five-year survival rate at the time of diagnosis. However, there are ways to detect signs of the disease in order to keep the cancer maintained and prolong survival.

Symptoms of peritoneal cancer can be difficult to detect. However, the most common signs include abdominal swelling and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Depending on the stage of the cancer and type of tumor, treatment options can include surgery (if eligible), oral or intravenous chemotherapy, or targeted drugs. Many of the treatment options depend on certain factors of the diagnosis, so it’s extremely important to discuss best options with your doctor.

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