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Foreign Countries and Mesothelioma

Two countries outside of the United States that have had high incidence rates of pleural mesothelioma include Australia and the United Kingdom. Asbestos exposure, the cause of this rare and fatal cancer, has affected these countries in very similar ways and continues to do so even though strict regulations have been in place to monitor the use of the toxic mineral. Incidence rates for mesothelioma in these countries are still climbing and are expected to peak within the next 10 years.

Asbestos Uses

Australia and the United Kingdom heavily used asbestos in various products throughout much of the twentieth century. The insulating and fireproofing capability of asbestos is what made the mineral so valuable. Asbestos was also very cheap in comparison to other materials able to fulfill similar needs. However, even with the knowledge that asbestos was dangerous, it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that the hazards associated with asbestos became public knowledge.

Some of the most common uses for asbestos existed within the construction and shipyard industry. Many materials designed for insulation and heat-resistance were made with asbestos, including pipe insulation, roofing shingles, floor and ceiling tiles, drywall, gaskets, valves, paint and cements. As a result, those who have worked in these industries are at an increased risk for developing an asbestos-related disease such as pleural mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma and Prevention

Exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of this rare cancer may take anywhere between 20 and 50 years to develop after the initial exposure to asbestos has occurred. This severe latency period is why many patients become diagnosed when the disease has already reached the advanced stages of development. The only way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid being exposed to asbestos.

Regardless of what country you live in, the life expectancy surrounding pleural mesothelioma is usually very low. Current treatment options may extend a patient’s overall survival, but they primarily provide temporary relief from symptoms. While a cure does not exist, doctors and researchers from around the world are continually testing new treatment methods through studies and clinical trials.

Sources

1. http://www.asbestosaustralia.com.au/
2. http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/index.htm