Mesothelioma Report Highlights Need for Continued Asbestos Advocacy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a somber report, based on death certificate data from 1999-2015, on the survival rates for people diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. Highlights of the report include:
- Despite efforts to regulate asbestos use and a decrease in its use, the annual number of mesothelioma deaths is still substantial
- The continuing occurrence of mesothelioma deaths, particularly among people under 55, underscores the need for maintaining efforts to prevent asbestos exposure
- Industry and occupational data were available for 96.3 percent of the deaths, which occurred in 23 states where industries and occupations such as shipbuilding and construction were major contributors to malignant mesothelioma mortality
The report stated that while most U.S. malignant mesothelioma deaths are the result of asbestos exposure 20-40 years prior, new cases might result from occupational exposure to asbestos if workers are not protected. Such work might include demolition and remediation of existing asbestos in structures, installations and buildings.
Occupations & Industries Linked to Mesothelioma
Occupations and industries with the highest rates of workers’ death being linked to mesothelioma, according to the report, include:
- Construction workers
- Electricians
- Industrial workers
- Chemical workers
- Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters
Motley Rice’s roots are in helping workers harmed by toxic asbestos exposure and who have developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. Our asbestos attorneys are advocates for an asbestos ban and stricter controls to protect workers in the workplace. Learn more about our asbestos practice.