Mesothelioma is just one of several asbestos-related diseases that devastate people all around the world, as well as here in the United States. Exposure to asbestos comes in many forms, but in the overwhelming majority of cases it is a result of occupational exposure. Though asbestos impacts people everywhere in the United States, a recent report has revealed that there are 15 out of 50 states that represent the highest number of deaths attributed to asbestos, totaling more than 100,000 deaths in 15 years.
It’s important for people to understand their risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, and a lot of that often comes down to where you’ve been. Here are the states with the highest number of asbestos-related deaths, in order:
1. California: Deaths: 21,338 out of a population of 39.5 million
In addition to industrial and occupational asbestos exposure, California was home to two asbestos mines and an asbestos dumpsite. Additionally, the state has numerous deposits of naturally-occurring asbestos. The majority of asbestos deaths in California occurred in Los Angeles and San Diego counties.
2. Florida: Deaths: 14,248 out of a population of 20.9 million
3. Pennsylvania: Deaths: 14,216 out of a population of 12.8 million
Many of Pennsylvania’s mesothelioma deaths are a result of its extensive industrial history, including oil refineries and the steel industry. The state also was home to a notorious asbestos dumpsite.
4. New York: Deaths: 12,146 out of a population of 19.8 million
New York has long been one of the country’s economic drivers, and part of its financial success has come from its factories, power plants and shipyards that consistently exposed workers to asbestos. New York is also know for skyscrapers, many of which were constructed using asbestos.
5. Texas: Deaths: 11,905 out of a population of 28.3
In addition to its oil refineries and other industries, the Texas coast has long been a hub for shipping.
Mesothelioma can affect anybody who has been exposed to asbestos at any point during their lifetime, and once a diagnosis comes, it changes everything. No matter where you are in the country, if you have questions the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Call us today at 1-800-692-8608.
