Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer Due to Asbestos Exposure in New Hampshire

Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer Prevalence in New Hampshire

Mesothelioma remains a concerning health issue for residents of New Hampshire, primarily due to asbestos exposure. Between 2017 and 2021, the state had an age-adjusted incidence rate of 1.0 cases per 100,000 people, totaling 94 new cases. Historically, industries such as textile manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding were major contributors to asbestos exposure, as the mineral was widely used for insulation and fireproofing. The legacy of these industries continues to affect workers and their families today.

Lung cancer, another disease associated with asbestos exposure, also affects many residents across the state. During the same period, New Hampshire recorded 5,847 new lung cancer cases, with an incidence rate of 59.3 per 100,000 people. In 2023 alone, approximately 1,280 new cases were reported, along with 100 deaths related to the disease, highlighting the ongoing health risks tied to asbestos exposure.

The long-term health consequences of asbestos exposure continue to impact New Hampshire workers decades after initial contact.