Mesothelioma is an aggressive, asbestos-related cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other organs. As physicians work to find better treatment protocols, researchers are compiling demographic data to show how diagnosis patterns have changed over the past two decades. According to a study published last week in the journal Cureus, titled “A Retrospective Epidemiological Study of Mesothelioma in the United States (1999–2020) Based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) Data,” incidence of the fatal disease peaked in 2011 and is now on a gradual decline.
Mesothelioma Incidence and Demographic Patterns Identified from CDC Data
An international group of researchers analyzed mesothelioma data from the Centers for Disease Control’s WONDER database, which contains information collected from more than 7 billion people between 1999 and 2020. They found that the rare asbestos-related disease affected some groups much more than others, with the highest incidence of the disease occurring in individuals aged 75 and older, that men were far more likely than women to be affected, and that white individuals experienced higher rates of illness than other racial groups. Together, these findings suggest that occupational exposure to asbestos, which is historically associated with industries including construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, continues to influence who develops mesothelioma today.
The researchers found that the rate of mesothelioma diagnosis increased steadily from 1999 to 2011, reflecting the disease’s characteristic long-term latency; there is generally a 30- to 40-year period between the time of asbestos exposure and the time that symptoms begin to appear. They also noted that the decline in incidence after 2011 correlates with the establishment of safety regulations that were put in place in the mid-1970s, limiting asbestos use. Despite the downward trend, the researchers emphasized that mesothelioma remains a significant health concern, especially for older adults who were exposed to the carcinogenic material decades ago.
Mesothelioma Risk Factors and Future Directions
Mesothelioma is always considered a fatal disease, with most patients surviving less than two years after diagnosis. The study highlights that while men remain the most affected group, cases among women have slightly increased — possibly from environmental or secondary exposure. This shift indicates a need for continued awareness and monitoring across all demographics.
The best way to address mesothelioma is a combination of prevention and early detection. The researchers recommend expanding screening for individuals known to be at risk based on previous exposure, as well as continuing advocacy for reducing asbestos exposure. They also note the importance of detailed data collection on tumor stage and patient outcomes to expand both understanding and treatment approaches for the disease. The researchers make it clear that awareness and prevention are essential.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.
