Mesothelioma and employment in Massachusetts: Analysis of Cancer Registry data 1988-2003

Malignant mesothelioma is most clearly linked to occupational exposure to asbestos. Studies have identified occupational and industries consistently associated with mesothelioma, such as shipbuilding and construction, resulting from exposures during the 1940's through 1970's. We have examined mesolthelioma cases diagnosed and reported to the Massachusetts Cancer Registry from 1988 -2003 to see if the occupational and demographic characteristics of the disease have changed as a result of greater exposure control or new exposures to “in-place” asbestos. The usual occupations and industries of cases of mesothelioma and comparison cancers not associated with asbestos exposure were coded utilizing NIOSH coding software, supplemented by manual coding. An investigator blinded to cancer type performed coding.

The preliminary results found total of 1,424 mesothelioma cases. Almost all cases were 40 years or older, white and male Case ages ranged from 24 to 96. The location with the greatest number of cases was Industries with the highest incidence were construction, and shipbuilding and repairing. Occupations with the highest incidence were: electricians, carpenters, laborers and janitors, and welders and cutters.

These preliminary results are consistent with historical trends, however they suggest the potential for cases arising from in-place asbestos, especially in the case of laborers, janitors and welders who might be exposed during maintenance and demolition activities. The next step will include calculation of Standardized Morbidity Ratios to examine the relationship between employment and mesothelioma.