Mesothelioma Incidence by Age
Posted on: January 8, 2024 *Updated on: May 25, 2024The information about mesothelioma and its incidence by age highlights some important points:
- Age Range of Diagnosis: Most mesothelioma patients are diagnosed between the ages of 75 and 80. This suggests that mesothelioma primarily affects older individuals.
- Higher Risk with Age: The risk of developing mesothelioma increases significantly with age. Individuals older than 60 have a 10 times higher risk compared to those younger than 40. This aligns with the common understanding that the risk of many types of cancers, including mesothelioma, increases with age.
- Average Age at Diagnosis and Latency Period: The average age at diagnosis reflects the long latency period (20 to 60 years) between initial exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma. This prolonged latency period means that the disease often manifests later in life, contributing to the older average age at diagnosis.
- Differences in Latency Period by Type: The latency period varies between types of mesothelioma. For peritoneal mesothelioma, the latency period is generally shorter compared to pleural mesothelioma. Consequently, the average age at diagnosis differs between these types: around 51 years for peritoneal mesothelioma and 67 years for pleural mesothelioma.
This data underscores the long-term impact of asbestos exposure and the importance of early detection, especially in older populations. It also highlights the need for continued research and awareness about asbestos-related diseases, particularly among those who may have been exposed to asbestos decades ago.