[Mesothelioma incidence around Goor, The Netherlands, and far beyond: the asbestos drama unfolds].
Whereas the carcinogenic properties of asbestos have been known for more than 70 years, the mesothelioma epidemic in Europe has not yet reached its peak. After occupationally induced cases, environmental cases are being revealed at an ever-increasing rate. In 2005 a total ban on the production and use of asbestos in Europe was announced. Worldwide, the use of asbestos has shifted towards emerging economies such as those occurring in Asia. Economic reasons and a strong lobby from the asbestos industry explain the delay in the implementation of proper preventive actions as well as the global shift. The WHO and the International Labour Office are collaborating towards the elimination of asbestos-related diseases worldwide. More awareness is needed in order to prevent similar tragedies occurring from other side effects of work.
Klinisch Arbeidsgeneeskundige, Academisch Medisch Centrum/Universiteit van Amsterdam, Coronel Instituut voor Arbeid en Gezondheid, Nederlands Centrum voor Beroepsziekten, Postbus 22.660, 1100 DD Amsterdam. g.vanderlaan@amc.uva.nl
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D001194:Asbestos / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001195:Asbestosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D002273:Carcinogens; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008654:Mesothelioma / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009426:Netherlands / Q000453:epidemiology; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*
D002273:Carcinogens; D001194:Asbestos