Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer Due to Asbestos Exposure in Washington (WA)

Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer Prevalence in Washington

Mesothelioma is a cancer that impacts the mesothelium, the lining that protects internal organs such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart. This disease is primarily caused by prolonged asbestos exposure.

According to CDC statistics, the age-adjusted rate of mesothelioma in Washington between 2017 and 2021 was 1.0 per 100,000 people, with 418 new cases reported.

Mining and maritime industries have been among the largest contributors to asbestos exposure in Washington.

Lung cancer is another serious disease associated with asbestos exposure. In 2023, an estimated 5,030 new lung cancer cases were reported in Washington, with approximately 2,630 deaths attributed to the disease.

Between 2017 and 2021, the age-adjusted lung cancer rate in Washington was 49.0 per 100,000 people, with 22,563 new cases reported. In 2024, the new lung cancer rate increased slightly to 49.4, remaining lower than the national average of 53.6. Washington ranks 14th nationwide for lung cancer incidence, with a 12% improvement over the last five years.

Washington continues to experience the long-term health consequences of asbestos use across multiple industries.

Contributing Factors

Regions such as Okanogan, the Cascade Mountains, and the Rocky Mountains contain significant asbestos deposits. Northern Washington is home to five asbestos mines near Ellensburg and Wenatchee, increasing exposure risks for mining workers and their families.

Major shipyards located in Vancouver, Seattle, and Tacoma exposed shipbuilders and workers to asbestos. The timber industry, particularly paper and pulp mills, also contributed to asbestos exposure through the use of insulation, machinery, and adhesives.

Oil refinery employees in Washington have faced elevated exposure risks, and asbestos-related lung cancer risks increase significantly among regular smokers.