Who has the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma?
Those who have come in contact with asbestos have the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma. Over 50 percent of those with mesothelioma have had some type of contact with asbestos. This includes shipyard workers, construction workers, roofers, insulation installers and miners. Due to the majority of males in these professions, it is seen more often in males than females. The family members of those exposed to asbestos at work are also at risk because of the exposure to secondary asbestos in the air or on clothes worn home from work. Exposure to asbestos in tiles or ceilings at home is also a risk factor. The addition of smoking to asbestos exposure greatly increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Among those exposed to asbestos, smokers were 55 percent more likely to get cancer as opposed to the normal population. In Turkey, exposure to erionite has also shown an increased risk of development of mesothelioma.