Abstract
Background: Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that principally affects the pleura and is almost always caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma incidence has increased in South East England of which East Kent is a major part, particularly for men aged over 70 years, reflecting areas of asbestos use in shipbuilding and industry in the past.
Methods: The aim of the study is to estimate the current burden of cancer in the area of East Kent in the UK attributable to occupational factors, and identify carcinogenic agents, industries and occupations for targeting risk prevention.
Data of all cases diagnosed at East Kent Hospitals NHS Trust were collected retrospectively from April 2009 to March 2010.
Results: There were a total of 15 cases in East Kent Hospital NHS trust, UK over the period of one year which is a significantly high number as compared to previous years, the current population being 614,576. All of them were male. Median age was 74 years and median survival from diagnosis was 8.9 months. 85% had documented evidence of definite or probable exposure to asbestos. There were 7 cases that were treated with chemotherapy, 6 patients had radiotherapy and 2 patients with advanced malignancy had palliative treatment. No patient had radical surgery and there was minimal difference in relative survival between men with localised and non-localised disease.
Conclusion: In Great Britain, where asbestos use continued later than many other countries, the peak is anticipated to occur later between 2011 and 2115. Cancer networks, especially those with primary care trusts with high incidence, need to be aware of this disease and ensure that risk reduction strategies and services are in place to assist these patients.
- © 2011 ERS