An Occupational Legacy: Malignant Mesothelioma Incidence and Mortality in Wisconsin.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to describe mesothelioma occurrence in Wisconsin from 1997 to 2013 by usual industry and occupation (I&O), including occupations generally considered low risk.

METHODS

Population-based rates and standardized incidence and mortality ratios were calculated. Two case-control analyses were designed to compare mesothelioma incidence and mortality in specific I&O groups with occurrence of (1) brain and central nervous system cancers and (2) other causes of death, using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Mesothelioma incidence and mortality were elevated in Wisconsin (SIRadj = 1.20 [1.13 to 1.28]; SMRadj = 1.30 [1.22 to 1.38]). Certain industry (construction, manufacturing) and occupation (construction and extraction) groups were associated with increased odds of mesothelioma, with some evidence of increased risk among teachers.

CONCLUSIONS

Forty years after the Occupational and Safety Health Act, mesothelioma incidence and mortality remain elevated in Wisconsin, with increased risk continuing for certain I&O groups.