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HSE REPORT HIGHLIGHTS A POSITIVE SHIFT IN THE FIGHT AGAINST ASBESTOS-LINKED CANCER

Asad Khan


HSE Report Highlights A Decline In Mesothelioma Deaths: A Positive Shift In The Fight Against Asbestos-Linked Cancer

Latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics reveal a continued decline in mesothelioma deaths across Great Britain in 2021, marking a significant step in the ongoing reduction of this fatal cancer linked to asbestos exposure.

Decline in Mesothelioma Deaths: Statistics and Analysis

Mesothelioma, a cancer known for its lengthy latency period following asbestos fibre inhalation, has been the subject of concern due to its rapid fatality upon symptom onset. The report underscores that annual deaths in Britain related to mesothelioma have surged over the past half-century, predominantly due to past occupational asbestos exposures, particularly between 1950 and 1980.

The statistics reveal a total of 2,268 mesothelioma-related deaths in Great Britain in 2021. This number marks a decline of 302 fatalities compared to the previous year's toll of 2,570. Notably, the 2021 figure is substantially lower than the average of 2,520 deaths per year recorded between 2012 and 2019.

Experts suggest that the considerable decrease in deaths in 2021 aligns with earlier projections, which anticipated a gradual decline in annual fatalities throughout the 2020s. However, fluctuations in the data for 2020 and 2021 might be attributed to various factors associated with the global COVID-19 pandemic

Gender-specific Trends and Predictions

Taking a closer look, a gender-specific analysis brings to light the specifics. In 2021, 1,867 male deaths were recorded, a stark contrast to the 2,103 in 2020, and the average of 2,107 annual male deaths spanning from 2012 to 2019. Similarly, 2021 saw 401 female deaths, a drop from the 467 in the preceding year, and an average of 416 female deaths each year between 2012 and 2019. Projections from the report suggest that female mesothelioma-related deaths will likely hover between 400 and 500 per year throughout the 2020s.

While acknowledging the undeniable influence of the coronavirus pandemic on the figures of 2020 and 2021, the report goes on to explore potential factors at play. These encompass the direct impact of COVID-19 on individuals grappling with mesothelioma, as well as indirect effects on healthcare systems and the intricate network of death recording and certification.

Especially susceptible are men who toiled in the construction industry during the era of widespread asbestos usage. Their heightened exposure risk places them squarely in the crosshairs of mesothelioma's grasp. This report serves as a testament to the journey ahead, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the challenge of battling a cancer that has haunted generations.

For the complete report click here

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