WCLC 2025 - Posters & ePosters-P3.14.01 Global Trends in Asbestos Related Mesothelioma Mortality From 1990 to 2021

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This study analyzes global trends in asbestos-related mesothelioma mortality from 1990 to 2021 using data from the Global Burden of Disease database. Mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure, remains a critical public health issue worldwide despite efforts to regulate asbestos. The study reports on changes in incidence and mortality rates, stratified by age, sex, and socio-demographic index (SDI).<br /><br />Findings reveal that the incidence of mesothelioma nearly doubled over the 31-year period, from 16,493 cases in 1990 to 31,908 in 2021. Deaths increased from 13,763 in 1990 to 29,619 in 2021, with 92% attributed to occupational asbestos exposure. Mortality rises were most pronounced among older adults (aged 55 and above), with a 101% increase in men (9,070 to 18,257 deaths) and a 99% increase in women (3,161 to 6,293 deaths). Among younger adults (ages 20-54), deaths increased by 62.5% for men and 86.3% for women.<br /><br />Furthermore, mortality rates rose across all SDI categories, but the most dramatic increases occurred in middle and low-middle SDI countries, where deaths surged between 145% and 312%. This suggests that although asbestos regulation has been strengthened in some regions, occupational exposure remains a significant cause of mesothelioma deaths globally, particularly in developing and transitioning economies.<br /><br />The persistence and growth of asbestos-related mesothelioma mortality emphasize the urgent need for more robust global policies focused on asbestos regulation, improved workplace safety, and early disease detection programs to curb the ongoing burden of this fatal disease worldwide.

Asset Subtitle

Kyle Edwards

Meta Tag

Speaker Kyle Edwards

Topic Mesothelioma, Thymoma, and Other Thoracic Tumors

Keywords

asbestos-related mesothelioma

mesothelioma mortality

Global Burden of Disease

asbestos exposure

incidence rates

mortality rates

occupational health

socio-demographic index

public health policy

workplace safety