
Mesothelioma is a deadly disease which is caused due to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma cancer symptoms take around 20 to 50 years from the time of first exposure to appear. Currently asbestos is not mined in the United States; however the substance is still imported and therefore still a threat to people’s health. Here’s a look at the latest mesothelioma statistics in the U.S.
In the United States there are currently an estimated 1 million construction workers and other related industry workers who are potentially at a high risk of getting exposed to asbestos. According to the latest mesothelioma statistics, approximately 18,000 deaths were reported due to malignant mesothelioma in the United States between 1995 to 2005. This number has increased during recent years. To get an exact number of mesothelioma deaths, physicians need to keep accurate records of the occupational history and victims of all mesothelioma cases.
The number one cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Most mesothelioma victims were exposed to asbestos at their workplace. Because mesothelioma is mainly associated with occupational exposure and has a long latency period, it is sometimes difficult to pin point the exact time and occupation of the exposure.
Asbestos was heavily used in numerous construction and manufacturing materials and products during the 20th century. The use of asbestos in the United States peaked in the early 70s, but showed a decrease in 2007. A considerably large amount of asbestos is still present in older buildings which will probably be disturbed or removed at some point, either during construction, remodeling or demolition. Any activity, such as remodeling, maintenance, or demolition that might disturb asbestos fibers is a serious threat to the general public.
Asbestos exposure is still a huge problem in the United States despite actions to regulate its use; even with a decline of asbestos use the potential threat still remains high. However, most deaths that are now being documented originated from asbestos exposure decades ago.
It is reported that new mesothelioma cases are still on the rise, and cases in the future will further reveal the harmful effects of this deadly substance. New mesothelioma cases might also result from environmental exposure to asbestos particles during remodeling and demolition of older buildings, especially if the lack of regulations to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure continues.
Be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest mesothelioma statistics in the United States.