Mesothelioma Across Borders: How the U.S. and Australia Compare

Mesothelioma has long been one of the most devastating cancers linked to workplace and environmental exposure. Caused by asbestos exposure, this rare cancer continues to take lives decades after asbestos use was restricted or banned. But new reports suggest that while the number of new cases each year is holding steady, there are small but meaningful signs of progress when it comes to survival. The question remains: is there real reason for hope?

The Situation in Australia: A Global Hotspot

Australia has one of the highest mesothelioma incidence rates in the world. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s 2024 report, there were 684 new diagnoses in 2024, with a median age at diagnosis of 77. That translates to an age-standardized rate of 1.9 cases per 100,000 people, making mesothelioma one of the most significant asbestos-related diseases still affecting the nation today.

The report also confirmed 688 deaths from mesothelioma in 2023, the same mortality rate of 1.9 per 100,000 population. Despite Australia’s complete ban on asbestos in 2003, asbestos-containing materials remain in older homes, public buildings, and infrastructure, meaning risks of exposure persist.

Mesothelioma in the United States: A Different Picture

In the United States, the overall incidence of mesothelioma is lower, but the threat is no less real. Each year, around 3,000 new cases are diagnosed—a rate of about 0.6 per 100,000 people. The difference largely reflects Australia’s heavier historic use of asbestos, particularly in construction and mining, compared with the U.S.

Yet, survival rates in both countries show a similar pattern: short-term survival is improving, but long-term outcomes remain poor. In the U.S., five-year survival is typically between 8% and 12%, depending on stage and patient health. In Australia, the most recent figures show five-year survival at just 6.8% overall (5.3% for men, 13% for women).

Why the Numbers Are Holding Steady

The Australian report makes clear that cases are not decreasing dramatically, despite asbestos bans. That’s because mesothelioma can take 20 to 60 years after exposure to develop. People exposed decades ago—through construction work, shipbuilding, mining, or even home renovations—are only now developing symptoms.

This latency means we will continue to see new cases for years to come, even though asbestos is no longer used in new products. The “steady” numbers are not a sign of safety—they’re a reminder of how long-lasting asbestos exposure risks can be.

Signs of Progress

Where hope does exist is in the short-term survival data. Between 1987–1991 and 2017–2021, one-year relative survival in Australia nearly doubled, from 28.6% to 48.4%. That improvement is likely due to earlier diagnoses, better imaging technologies, and advances in multimodal treatments that combine surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

In the U.S., similar trends are being reported. More patients are living beyond the first year of diagnosis, particularly when treated at specialized mesothelioma centers. Clinical trials exploring immunotherapies and targeted drugs may continue to push survival rates forward, even if progress is gradual.

Who Is Most at Risk?

The data shows that men are more likely to be diagnosed than women, reflecting occupational exposure patterns. In Australia between 2011 and 2024, incidence averaged 4.5 cases per 100,000 men versus 0.9 for women.

However, women are far from immune. Many women were exposed secondhand, through dust brought home on a partner’s work clothes, or through home renovations involving asbestos products. The report found that more than 9 in 10 patients who completed exposure assessments reported some level of possible or probable asbestos exposure.

The Continuing Legacy of Asbestos

Even though asbestos is banned in Australia and heavily regulated in the United States, it remains present in countless older structures. Renovations, demolitions, or improper handling can disturb asbestos and release microscopic fibers into the air. Once inhaled, those fibers lodge deep in the lungs, setting the stage for mesothelioma decades later.

That’s why mesothelioma is not just a disease of the past—it’s a continuing public health crisis. Workers, homeowners, and entire communities remain at risk unless asbestos already in the built environment is properly managed and eventually removed.

Mesothelioma Facts: Australia vs. United States

Incidence (New Cases)
• Australia (2024): 684 new cases; rate of 1.9 per 100,000 people
• United States: ~3,000 new cases annually; rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people
Mortality (Deaths)
• Australia (2023): 688 deaths; mortality rate 1.9 per 100,000
• United States: Roughly matches incidence, with most patients not surviving long-term
Median Age at Diagnosis
• Australia: 77 years
• United States: Typically between 72–74 years
Survival Rates
• Australia: 1-year survival nearly doubled from 28.6% (1987–1991) to 48.4% (2017–2021)
• Australia: 5-year survival ~6.8% (higher in women: 13%)
• United States: 5-year survival 8–12%, depending on type and stage

Key Takeaway
Mesothelioma cases remain steady, with slight survival improvements, but outcomes remain poor. Every case is tied to asbestos exposure, making this an entirely preventable disease.

What These Numbers Mean for Families

For families, the statistics can feel overwhelming. But they also provide important context. Knowing that survival is slowly improving offers hope that treatments are advancing. At the same time, recognizing the strong link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma underscores the importance of documenting exposure histories and seeking expert medical and legal guidance.

The numbers are not just abstract—they represent thousands of families navigating devastating diagnoses. Legal cases often reveal how manufacturers and suppliers failed to protect workers, and prioritized profit over safety. Holding these entities accountable not only provides financial relief for families, but it also drives broader awareness and prevention.

Mesothelioma cases may be holding steady, but they remain a preventable tragedy. Every diagnosis can be traced back to asbestos exposure—exposure that never should have happened.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease, it is crucial to know your rights. At Brayton Purcell LLP, we have decades of experience representing victims of asbestos exposure. We fight tirelessly to hold negligent companies accountable and to secure justice and compensation for affected families.

👉 Contact Brayton Purcell LLP today to learn more about your legal options. Our team is here to help you navigate this difficult journey and stand with you every step of the way.