CDC Report Suggests Increase in Mesothelioma-Related Mortality Rate
In early March, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report that indicated an increase in the mortality and the morbidity of individuals diagnosed with Mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive and rare form of cancer that has been linked to asbestos exposure. The disease affects the lining of the lungs, or the abdomen and heart, and eventually hinders those organs’ ability to perform essential functions.
During the 20th century, asbestos was heavily used as a strengthener, insulator, and binding agent in numerous consumer products. But, because health-related consequences associated with asbestos exposure metastasize slowly, decades before its carcinogenic effects were exposed. Now, the risks associated with exposure to asbestos are well known, and the material is regulated in various industries. Reports have even suggested that with the wealth of initiatives undertaken to educate the public of the risks and to reduce the use of the material across the globe, the mesothelioma-death rate would, at this point, decline.
A recent CDC report, entitled Malignant Mesothelioma Mortality — United States, 1999–2015 indicates otherwise. Findings detailed that annually, the number of malignant mesothelioma deaths have increased by 4% from 1999 to 2015 respectively. From 1999-2015, 45,221 mesothelioma related deaths of patients older than 25 years of age were reported, only 37.4% or 16,914 of those deaths were patients between 75-84 years old.
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) released a statement saying that this increase is not surprising, as exposure is still prevalent due to such high rates of historical use of asbestos in construction. The CDC’s report confirmed MARF’s longstanding beliefs, stating that regardless of regulations, asbestos products continue to be used and that new products continue to be manufactured and imported into the US.
Peter Angelos Law has been Maryland’s leading mesothelioma and asbestos victims law firm for over 50 years. Our attorneys have recovered significant compensation on behalf of thousands of working men, women, and families affected by this disease – and we’re prepared to fight for you.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, or are suffering from mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, our mesothelioma lawyers can help you pursue legal recourse to recover your damages.
To learn more about mesothelioma, asbestos exposure, and your legal rights, fill out a free case evaluation form.