[Malignant pleural mesothelioma in Norway 1960-1992]

The incidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma among men in Norway increased about eightfold from 1960 to 1992. A similar rise in incidence has been observed in many countries with large consumption of asbestos during the last 50 years. The causal relationship between malignant mesothelioma and previous exposure to asbestos is well established. The investigation shows incomplete notification to the Labour Inspection as compared with the number of cases recorded by the Cancer Registry. Patients may therefore lose compensation both from the National Insurance Administration and as authorized by the new Occupational Injury Insurance Act of 1990. Asbestos was prohibited in Norway in 1985. Owing to the long latency time, about 30-40 years, the rise in incidence will probably continue for the next 20 years or more. Strict preventive precautions are important in order to prevent a "third wave" of asbestos-related diseases in the future.