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Mesothelioma rates in B.C. and Canada

This study examines trends in mesothelioma incidence and survival in Canada, focusing on data from British Columbia (B.C.) and Ontario. Despite the asbestos ban in Canada, mesothelioma remains a significant concern due to its long latency period. Using data from cancer registries in B.C. (1992-2016) and Ontario (1993-2017), the study analyzes trends in mesothelioma incidence, survival rates, and geographical patterns. The incidence of mesothelioma has steadily increased, with a notable rise in women and older populations. Survival rates remain low, with median survival times of 8 months in both provinces, and 5-year survival rates of only 3.5% in B.C. and 7.6% in Ontario. Geographic variability was observed, with higher rates in areas with historical asbestos use. The study highlights the need for ongoing surveillance, better exposure history data, and the establishment of a mesothelioma registry to improve understanding and prevention of this fatal disease.

Principal Applicant: Paul Demers (Cancer Care Ontario)
Co-Applicants: Christopher B. McLeod (University of British Columbia); Christopher W. Lee (BC Cancer – Fraser Valley Centre); Alice Peter (Cancer Care Ontario); Colin Murray (WorkSafeBC); Aaron Thompson (University of Toronto and St. Michael’s Hospital)
Funding Awarded: $49,300 (Specific Priorities/Systematic Reviews)

Competition Year: 2018 File type: PDF (489 KB) Asset type: Research Research: RS2018-SP27