To the end of the year 2020, more than 2500 British people died of mesothelioma – up 6% on the previous year, according to the Health and Safety Executive.
The rate of deaths from mesothelioma, a fatal asbestos-related cancer, has increased significantly in the past 50 years. A large portion of those deaths are attributed to occupational exposure from widespread use of asbestos in industrial settings from 1950 – 1980.
The fatality rates have seen significantly more men than women die of the disease, which is also attributed to industrial use of asbestos and workplace exposure. Men made up more than 2000 of the deaths to 2020 in the UK.
The HSE noted that the rate of Covid infections in those who already had mesothelioma may have contributed or exacerbated their pre-existing condition.
Death rates of mesothelioma in the UK in working-age adults have decreased, with the numbers reflecting historical exposure and most affected victims over the age of 75.
The rate of diagnoses in the United Kingdom is decreasing, with a reduction of close to 100 reported to the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for 2020.
Geographically, the highest rate of deaths was in the North East of England, and is attributed by the HSE to professions including plumbers, electricians, carpenters, shipbuilders and metal plate workers.
The rates of deaths at work reduced last year, but authorities warn that this is likely due to long-term lockdowns across the country during the pandemic.