Cases of Mesothelioma Cancer From Asbestos Exposure Are Underreported
A large number of cases of mesothelioma cancer from asbestos exposure still go unreported worldwide, according to new research. Although the number number of mesothelioma deaths in the United States is expected to level off and start declining in the coming years, many countries that still heavily rely on asbestos are likely headed for a large number of cases of the deadly lung cancer for decades to come.
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According to a study published online in the medical journal Environmental Health Prospectives, researchers estimate that for every four or five cases of mesothelioma reported worldwide, there is another case that goes unreported. In addition, researchers said that countries still using asbestos, which was banned nearly three decades ago in the United States, need to prepare for a large number of cases of mesothelioma cancer in the future, as the condition has a long latency period and a mesothelioma diagnosis can come decades after the last exposure to asbestos.
The researchers looked at data on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma from 56 countries, correlating data from mesothelioma cases collected from 1994 through 2008 with data on asbestos use from 1920 through 1970. Of the 56 countries that report, there were 174,300 cases of mesothelioma during a 15-year time period. The researchers estimate that in the 33 countries that do not report, there were about 38,900 cases of mesothelioma in the same time period. They point out that their numbers are conservative and have urged all countries to stop using the substance in interviews regarding their findings.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer found in the lining of the chest and lungs, which is only known to occur as a result of exposure to asbestos. The disease carries a limited life-expectancy after diagnosis, since it is often not discovered until decades after asbestos exposure. When inhaled, asbestos fibers can also cause asbestosis and lung cancer.
Asbestos was widely used in a variety of manufacturing and construction applications throughout the last century, including home insulation, with use peaking in 1973. Most uses of asbestos were banned in the United States in the mid-1980s, but a number of countries still use asbestos.
MESOTHELIOMA CANCER LAWYERS
The mesothelioma cancer lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. review potential asbestos exposure lawsuits for individuals throughout the United States. Although many cases involve individuals who worked directly with asbestos, potential mesothelioma lawsuits are also reviewed for individuals who developed the condition as a result of asbestos exposure from fibers carried home on the clothes or in the hair of family members who worked around the fibers.
To review a potential claim for yourself, a friend or family member, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
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