1097-0274/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=e0f33b687598b5adbbbced84abe7a827fb4a7d56 "American Journal of Industrial Medicine")
Consultant.
Research Article
Under-reporting of compensable mesothelioma in Alberta
Article first published online: 29 MAY 2009
DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20705
Copyright © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Additional Information
How to Cite
Cree, M. W., Lalji, M., Jiang, B. and Carriere, K. C. (2009), Under-reporting of compensable mesothelioma in Alberta. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 52: 526–533. doi: 10.1002/ajim.20705
Publication History
- Issue published online: 10 JUN 2009
- Article first published online: 29 MAY 2009
- Manuscript Accepted: 10 MAR 2009
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- workers' compensation;
- neoplasm;
- asbestos;
- mesothelioma;
- occupational disease
Abstract
Background
When combined with a history of occupational asbestos exposure, mesothelioma is often presumed work-related. In Canada, workers diagnosed with mesothelioma caused by occupational asbestos exposure are often eligible for compensation under provincial workers' compensation boards. Although occupational asbestos exposure causes the majority of mesothelioma, Canadian research suggests less than half of workers actually apply for compensation. Alberta's mandatory reporting requirements may produce higher filing rates but this is currently unknown. This study evaluates Alberta's mesothelioma filing and compensation rates.
Methods
Demographic information on all mesothelioma patients diagnosed between 1980 and 2004 were extracted from the Alberta Cancer Board's Cancer Registry and linked to Workers' Compensation Board of Alberta claims data.
Results
Alberta recorded a total of 568 histologically confirmed mesothelioma cases between 1980 and 2004. Forty-two percent of cases filed a claim; 83% of filed claims were accepted for compensation.
Conclusions
Patient under-reporting of compensable mesothelioma is a problem and raises larger questions regarding under-reporting of other asbestos-related cancers in Alberta. Strategies should focus on increasing filing rates where appropriate. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:526–533, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.