Malignant Mesothelioma in Eastern Asia

Abstract

Relatively low numbers of malignant mesotheliomas have been reported from Eastern Asia. In order to explore the causes of this fact, the available data on mesothelioma incidence/mortality in five countries (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore) were reviewed. Data on the industrial histories of the above countries were also examined. Mesothelioma incidence was low, despite a history of high shipbuilding and port activities, in which heavy exposure to asbestos generally has occurred. Underestimation of mesothelioma could partly explain the above discrepancy. Moreover, in some areas a sufficient latency period for mesothelioma development may have not yet elapsed, due to recent industrialization. However, other possibilities have to be considered. The cancer epidemiology in Eastern Asia differs deeply from that seen in Western countries, an indication of differences in etiologic factors of cancer as well as in co-factors. In addition, the oncogenic spectrum of asbestos is wide, and not completely defined. In a very different milieu from that of Western countries, asbestos could preferentially hit targets other than serosal membranes.

Iron overload as a major targetable pathogenesis of asbestos-induced mesothelial carcinogenesis

“…In Japan, we have approximately 1500 new MM cases each year, and incidence rates are increasing. 8 This figure may be small in comparison to new cases of lung cancer, which account for approximately 80 000 cases each year, but MM carries a social impact because 80% of cases are thought to be associated with former asbestos exposure. 1 MM has a mysteriously long incubation period after asbestos exposure, and I suggest that this is the period required for the asbestos fibers to pass through the pulmonary parenchymal tissue.…”

Caring for Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma in Japan: Evaluation of a Palliative Care Educational Program

“…In Eastern Asia, mesothelioma incidence was low due to under diagnosis and recent industralization Bianchi and Bianchi, 2012). The cases of mesothelioma are expected to increase in the near future.…”

Testicular Mesothelioma

“…According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, in Europe there is a significant variation between the levels of mesothelioma morbidity in different countries [10,110]. Thus, in 1993-1997 the largest number of cases of mesothelioma among men are registered in Scotland and the Netherlands -34 cases per million, whereas in Estonia and Belarus -only 3 cases per million.…”

“…Projected to peak IARC mesothelioma in Western Europe will be in the 2015-2030 years. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer the peak of mesothelioma morbidity in Western Europe will be in the 2015-2030 [11,110].…”