Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma?
• The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos. In fact, about 70% to 80% of patients with malignant mesothelioma report a history of asbestos exposure.
• Occupational asbestos exposure includes miners, ship builders, automobile manufacturing, insulation manufacturing, railroad workers or construction workers.
• Exposure can also occur in household environments from exposure to asbestos containing products including insulation materials, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, cement, textiles, and paint.
• There is an estimated 8% lifetime risk of asbestos workers developing mesothelioma. In a study conducted on asbestos insulation workers, the death rate from mesothelioma was 344 times higher than in the general population.
• Family members of asbestos workers have an increased risk of mesothelioma because asbestos dust is carried home on clothing.
• There is no association between mesothelioma and smoking.