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Average Age of Presentation of Mesothelioma is Increasing, Average Health of Mesothelioma Patients Worse than Expected
LEEDS, UK — April 11, 2008 — Researchers from Leeds in the UK have released a study in the online publication Thorax, January 17, 2008, that affirms the rising incidence of malignant mesothelioma. The study also shows that the average health and survival for those suffering from mesothelioma is worse than previously concluded. Mesothelioma is associated with exposure to asbestos. It is a rare and deadly type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdominal cavity and heart. (For more information on mesothelioma, please see our article “Mesothelioma: What It Is and How It Develops.”)
By the year 2015, the number of deaths due to mesothelioma in Great Britain is projected to peak at 2,450 deaths per year. Previously published literature reported a median survival rate of 14 months, and a median age of 63. However, according to the Leeds study there is a lack of data on the “overall natural history and management within an unselected population, separate from referral institutions or compensation claimants.” To compensate for this, the Leeds researchers studied mesothelioma patients over the course of four years collecting data within a specific geographical area of the UK. (Thorax Online, January 17, 2008)
Between 2001 and 2005, researchers identified 146 cases of mesothelioma out of a population of 750,000. Among the study findings, 77% of the mesothelioma patients were male and the average age was 74, (ranging between 36–93). The average survival rate from the time of diagnosis was 8.9 months, a stark contrast to what was originally determined in previous studies. 85% had documented evidence of definite or probable exposure to asbestos.
Overall, the population–based study suggests that the average age of presentation of malignant mesothelioma is increasing and baseline performance status, lower performance scores and survival is worse than past reports have reflected.
Reference:
Chapman A, Mulrennan S, Ladd B, et al. Population–based epidemiology and prognosis of mesothelioma in Leeds, United Kingdom. Thorax [early online publication] January 17, 2008.
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For over 24 years, the California–based mesothelioma attorneys of Brayton Purcell have been extensively involved with the legal rights of mesothelioma victims, including injured workers and their families. We have represented both asbestos workers and individuals who have come into contact with asbestos through others. We seek damages to the full extent allowed by law in order to compensate our clients for their pain and suffering, loss of wages, and medical expenses.
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