Asbestosis is a serious lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. The disease is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lungs, which can lead to difficulty breathing, lung cancer, and even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asbestosis is responsible for an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 deaths each year in the United States. This number is likely to increase in the future as more people are exposed to asbestos.
The death rate from asbestosis depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of asbestos exposure, the length of time exposed, and the individual's age and overall health. Generally, the risk of death from asbestosis increases the longer a person is exposed to asbestos.
For example, a study conducted in the United Kingdom found that among people who had been exposed to asbestos for 10 years or more, the mortality rate from asbestosis was 12.2 percent. For those who had been exposed for 30 years or more, the mortality rate was 25.4 percent.
The death rate from asbestosis is also higher in certain population groups. For example, people over 65 years old are more likely to die from the disease than younger people, and men are more likely to die from asbestosis than women.
Overall, while the death rate from asbestosis is relatively low compared to other diseases, it is still a serious and potentially deadly condition. It is important for people who are exposed to asbestos to be aware of the risks associated with the disease and to take steps to protect their health.