Mesothelioma Questions

Although relatively rare, the incidence of mesothelioma has increased over the last 20 years with roughly 2,000 new cases reported in the U.S. each year. The disease is more common in men with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. Occupational exposure to asbestos is reported in 3-4 out of every 5 cases. Those who work with asbestos carry an overall 8% lifetime risk of developing malignant pleural mesothelioma. Increase in both time and intensity of exposure increases the risk for all asbestos-related disease. Even those indirectly exposed, such as family members of asbestos workers, have an increased risk of mesothelioma. Cigarette smoking does not increase the incidence of mesothelioma. However, it should be noted that a combined history of asbestos exposure and smoking increases the risk of bronchogenic cancer. Additionally, not all cases of mesothelioma have an identified exposure to asbestos and not all who are exposed to asbestos will develop asbestos-related disease.

There are approximately 2,000-3,000 new cases diagnosed per year in the United States.  It is most often seen in men over age 65, although any
age may be affected.  According to OSHA, 1.3 million employees face significant asbestos exposure (most common cause of mesothelioma) in the
workplace.  People with mesothelioma often show no signs or symptoms for   30-50 years.  Once a person begins to show signs and symptoms, the disease
is usually quite progressed, with an average life expectancy of a few months to a couple of years remaining.  Those who are at greatest risk of
developing mesothelioma are in contact with asbesstos, particularly in a dust form, like during asbestos removal.  Workers who are most at risk are
miners, factory workers, insulation manufacturers, railroad workers, ship builders, gas mask manufacturers and construction workers.  The families of
these workers are also at risk if the worker brings home asbestos dust on his or her clothing or hair.