Attorney
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is projecting that the number of mesothelioma cases may reach 3,000 in 2011. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure. The NCI’s prediction falls between 2,500 and 3,000 mesothelioma cases among U.S. citizens. The data is further broken down as follows:
- One third of all cases will be retired U.S. Navy veterans
- Another one third will be from industry workers including pipe fitters, plumbers, oil refinery workers, auto mechanics and construction workers
The NCI data is not that different from an earlier study by the Environmental Working Group Action Fund, which found that between 43,000 and 60,000 U.S. citizens had died from mesothelioma between 1979 and 2004. That averages out to between 1,720 and 2,400 deaths per year between 1979 and 2004.
The more recent NCI data shows a steady increase in mesothelioma cases over the years.
With asbestos warnings on the rise, and asbestos products on the decline, the increase in mesothelioma cases is somewhat surprising. Military veterans and those working in high risk asbestos industries should pay special attention to their health.
If you or a loved one suffers from complications due to asbestos exposure, a Washington, D.C. mesothelioma lawyer can help you. Contact Paulette Chapman, a Washington, D.C. mesothelioma attorney at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis.