Asbestos exposure still remains a significant risk.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Alongside mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is a known cause of lung cancer, a more common yet serious condition. This dual risk has garnered significant attention due to the widespread historical and ongoing use of asbestos in various industries. However, a recent study reveals a global decline in mesothelioma mortality rates, indicating progress in managing this particular asbestos-related disease.
The study was published in ATS Journals and examined worldwide rates of mesothelioma from 2009 to 2019. It found that the use of asbestos is on the rise in low-income countries, raising concerns about an increase in mesothelioma cases in the future.
The findings on mesothelioma mortality rates
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of mesothelioma on a global scale. This involved examining sex, age, sociodemographic indices, risk factors, and other various factors. To achieve this, researchers analyzed data from 204 countries and territories. They focused on mesothelioma incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
The study also explored the relationship between the sociodemographic index and age-standardized DALY rates, particularly looking at cases attributed to occupational asbestos exposure.
Here are the key findings from the study:
- Global mesothelioma cases in 2019: 34,511 (Uncertainty Interval: 31,199 to 37,771).
- Age-standardized incidence rate: 0.43 per 100,000 persons (Uncertainty Interval: 0.38 to 0.47).
- Decrease in incidence rate (1990-2019): -12.6% (Uncertainty Interval: -21.8% to -2.3%).
- Mesothelioma-related deaths in 2019: 29,251 (Uncertainty Interval: 26,668 to 31,006).
- Age-standardized mortality rate: 0.36 deaths per 100,000 persons (Uncertainty Interval: 0.33 to 0.39).
- Decrease in mortality rate (1990-2019): -9.6% (Uncertainty Interval: -17.8% to -1.1%).
- Increase in age-standardized incidence rate in Central Europe (1990-2019): 46.1% (Uncertainty Interval: 16.6% to 72.4%).
- Highest age-standardized incidence rates: The Netherlands, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
- Higher Incidence rates in men: Especially ages 45-49 to 90-94 years, peaking at 85-89 years.
- Contribution of occupational asbestos exposure to DALYs: 85.2% (Uncertainty Interval: 82.1% to 88.1%).
This overall decrease in the mesothelioma mortality rate reflects advancements in detection, treatment, and workplace safety measures. However, the persistence of mesothelioma cases, particularly in regions with high asbestos exposure, underscores the ongoing need for vigilant monitoring and preventive measures.
Symptoms of mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on where the cancer occurs in the body.
When mesothelioma affects the lungs, symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain or painful breathing.
- Persistent cough, which may be dry or produce sputum.
- Unusual lumps of tissue under the skin on the chest.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue.
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen.
In the abdomen, symptoms include:
- Abdominal swelling or pain.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- The feeling of fullness.
In the heart, mesothelioma manifests as chest pain and heart palpitations.
Take action if you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma
Mesothelioma can have devastating effects on individuals and families. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it's critical to understand your legal rights. An attorney at the Ferrell Law Group can help you get the compensation and justice you deserve.
Don't ignore the signs and symptoms of mesothelioma. Get medical help and schedule a free consultation with us as soon as possible. We'll help you explore your legal options and discuss the specifics of your case without any financial obligation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Don't delay – if mesothelioma has impacted your life, let us protect your rights and secure your future. Contact us online or call our law office in Houston, Texas to get started.