These 10 states have the highest rates
Mesothelioma: A Silent Menace in the United States
Cancer, the second leading cause of death in the United States, has various forms, each with its own level of severity. Mesothelioma, a less common but highly lethal type, stands out with a mere twelve percent five-year survival rate. This article delves into the geographical aspects of this deadly disease, exploring the states where the risk is significantly higher.
The Asbestos Connection: Mesothelioma’s Primary Cause
Mesothelioma’s aggression is directly linked to asbestos exposure, a substance prevalent in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. Although its use has diminished, older structures may still harbor this silent killer. Identifying areas at the highest risk is crucial for public awareness and preventive measures.
Mesothelioma Incidence Across the Nation
New Mesothelioma Cases: A Geographical Analysis
Analyzing data from 2015-2019, over 15,000 new mesothelioma cases emerged in the United States. Alaska and Maine topped the list with rates nearly double the national average, showcasing a concerning trend.
Mesothelioma Deaths: An Alarming Reality
During the same period, 12,431 individuals succumbed to mesothelioma. Delaware witnessed the highest death rate, almost doubling the national average. Despite a decrease in death rates since 1999, the annual count has risen, reflecting population growth and the disease’s latent nature.
The Top 10 States in Crisis
Delving deeper into the data, we identify the ten states facing the highest rates of mesothelioma diagnosis and death.
1. Maine
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.3 per 100,000 (131 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (106 deaths)
2. Delaware
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.2 per 100,000 (72 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (67 deaths)
3. Minnesota
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.2 per 100,000 (373 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (317 deaths)
4. Alaska
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.3 per 100,000 (41 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 0.9 per 100,000 (28 deaths)
5. Washington
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (440 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.0 per 100,000 (396 deaths)
6. Louisiana
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.2 per 100,000 (330 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 0.9 per 100,000 (252 deaths)
7. West Virginia
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.2 per 100,000 (148 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 0.9 per 100,000 (114 deaths)
8. Idaho
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (107 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.0 per 100,000 (94 deaths)
9. Montana
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.2 per 100,000 (85 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 0.9 per 100,000 (65 deaths)
10. Wisconsin
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.1 per 100,000 (393 new cases) Mesothelioma Death Rate: 0.8 per 100,000 (338 deaths)
States Defying the Odds
On the flip side, Hawaii leads the states with the lowest incidence rates, offering a glimmer of hope in the battle against mesothelioma.
The Microcosm of Mesothelioma: U.S. Counties in Peril
The study scrutinizes the ten U.S. counties grappling with the highest mesothelioma rates, emphasizing their alarming statistics.
1. Jefferson Parish, Louisiana
Population: 2,177,527
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.6 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 2.1 per 100,000
2. Jackson County, Mississippi
Population: 720,002
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.4 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 2.1 per 100,000
3. Kitsap County, Washington
Population: 1,331,404
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.4 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 2.0 per 100,000
4. New London County, Connecticut
Population: 1,339,159
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.1 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 2.2 per 100,000
5. Gloucester County, New Jersey
Population: 1,456,501
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.3 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.7 per 100,000
6. Butler County, Pennsylvania
Population: 935,900
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 2.2 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.5 per 100,000
7. York County, Maine
Population: 1,022,712
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.9 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.5 per 100,000
8. Camden County, New Jersey
Population: 2,534,555
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.9 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.4 per 100,000
9. Somerset County, New Jersey
Population: 1,651,105
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.8 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.5 per 100,000
10. Niagara County, New York
Population: 1,054,720
New Mesothelioma Cancer Rate: 1.6 per 100,000 Mesothelioma Death Rate: 1.6 per 100,000
Safeguarding Against Mesothelioma: A Call to Action
Understanding Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure, the primary culprit behind mesothelioma, often occurs during renovations or in older structures. Identifying and avoiding asbestos-containing materials is paramount.
Occupational Risks
Certain professions carry a higher risk, including military veterans, shipyard workers, and construction personnel. Adequate protective measures and training are imperative for those working in these industries.
Taking Control of Your Environment
For individuals residing in older homes, vigilance is crucial. Consulting with local agencies or certified asbestos contractors during renovations or material replacements is a proactive step.
Empowering Change: Data and Methodology
The article’s insights are derived from mesothelioma data spanning 2015-2019, provided by reputable health institutions. Rankings are based on a composite of death rates and new cancer cases, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.
