The Shocking Truth: How Many People in Australia Have Mesothelioma?

Greetings, dear readers. Today, we are going to explore a serious and heartbreaking topic that has affected thousands of Australians. Mesothelioma is a deadly disease that has taken the lives of many people in Australia. Every year, we learn of more cases of this illness, and it is important that we create awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure – the leading cause of mesothelioma.

Introduction

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs, most commonly the lungs. Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, and it can take years, even decades before symptoms start to appear. Many people who were exposed to asbestos in the 70s and 80s are being diagnosed with mesothelioma today. It is estimated that up to 60% of people diagnosed with mesothelioma in Australia are men who worked in the construction, mining, or manufacturing industries, where asbestos was commonly used.

It is essential to note that mesothelioma is a preventable disease, and the key to preventing it is through awareness and proper management of asbestos. Sadly, there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, and the survival rate is incredibly low as most cases are diagnosed in the late stages.

In this article, we will explore how many people in Australia have mesothelioma, the causes, and the preventive measures that can be taken to avoid exposure to asbestos.

How Many People in Australia Have Mesothelioma?

According to a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), between 2014 and 2018, there were 4,694 cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in Australia. On average, this represents about 940 cases per year. The report also shows that mesothelioma incidence rates in Australia have been increasing since the 1980s.

In 2019, it was reported that mesothelioma deaths in Australia had reached an all-time high, with 733 deaths recorded in 2018. The 2019 report by the Australian Mesothelioma Registry (AMR) shows that the number of deaths resulting from mesothelioma has increased by over 9% since 2015.

It is important to note that the number of people living with mesothelioma in Australia is not known, as there is no cure for the disease, and people can live with it for many years.

The Rate of Mesothelioma in Australia

The incidence rates of mesothelioma in Australia vary by state and territory, with the highest rates recorded in South Australia, followed by Western Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.

State/Territory	Incidence Rate (per 100,000)
South Australia	2.8
Western Australia	2.4
Victoria	2.2
New South Wales	2.1
Queensland	1.7
Tasmania	1.5
Northern Territory	0.8
Australian Capital Territory	0.4

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the internal organs, most commonly the lungs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos.

2. How common is mesothelioma in Australia?

Mesothelioma is relatively rare, but its incidence rates in Australia have been increasing since the 1980s.

3. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they often include shortness of breath, chest pain, and persistent coughing.

4. What causes mesothelioma?

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction, mining, and manufacturing industries.

5. How long does it take to develop mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos?

It can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos.

6. Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma, and the survival rate is very low.

7. How can mesothelioma be prevented?

The key to preventing mesothelioma is through awareness and proper management of asbestos. This includes identifying and safely removing asbestos-containing materials from homes and workplaces.

8. Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma?

People who have worked in industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing, where asbestos was commonly used, are at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma.

9. Can mesothelioma be inherited?

No, mesothelioma is not an inherited disease.

10. What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?

The survival rate for mesothelioma is very low, with most cases being diagnosed in the late stages.

11. What is the treatment for mesothelioma?

The treatment for mesothelioma can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

12. How long do people with mesothelioma typically live?

Most people with mesothelioma live for less than a year after being diagnosed.

13. Why is asbestos still used in Australia?

Asbestos is still used in some products in Australia because it has properties such as heat resistance and insulation that make it useful in certain applications. However, the use of asbestos is highly regulated in Australia, and there are strict guidelines in place to protect workers and the public from exposure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesothelioma is a serious and deadly disease that has affected thousands of Australians. The number of cases of mesothelioma in Australia is increasing every year, and it is important that we create awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure. We must take action to prevent further exposure to asbestos and work towards a cure for mesothelioma.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is essential that you seek medical attention and legal advice as soon as possible. There are many resources available to help you navigate this difficult time.

Closing Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Asbestos exposure is a serious matter, and if you believe you or a loved one may have been exposed, please seek medical attention immediately. The author and publisher of this article assume no liability for any personal or property damage, illness, or loss that may result from the use of the information presented herein.