CDC reveals malignant mesothelioma mortality details from 1999-2005
The CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released their analysis of malignant mesothelioma mortality records from 1999 until 2005. Malignant mesothelioma deaths were identified using death certificates. During this time, a total of 18,068 malignant mesothelioma patients died, increasing from 2,482 deaths in 1999 to 2,704 deaths in 2005. The annual death rate remained steady, however – 14.1 per million in 1999 and 14.0 per million in 2005.
A majority of the malignant mesothelioma deaths occurred among males (14,591) and whites (17,180). Mortality tended to increase with age, with most deaths occurring in people age 75 or older. Only 311 deaths occurred in people between the ages of 25 and 44.
The national death rate during this period was 13.8 per million. Six states, however, had death rates exceeding 20 per million: Maine, Wyoming, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Washington.
Industries with the most significant proportionate mortality ratios (PMRs) included shipbuilding and ship repair, industrial and miscellaneous chemicals, petroleum refining, electric light and power and construction. Occupations with the most significant PMRs included plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, mechanical engineers, electricians and elementary school teachers.
For the full story, go to The Journal of the American Medical Association.
