The gendered Experience of mesothelioma study (GEMS): findings from a survey data analysis

Sex-differences in incidence, rates and survival from malignant mesothelioma are well documented and often related to men’s greater exposure to asbestos, whilst women have a physiologically based higher survival rates. Findings show that early identification of patients with a good prognosis is key to appropriate management (1). The aim was to present early results from part of a wider study, the Gendered Experiences of Mesothelioma Study (GEMS), specifically considering sex and gender differences. We obtained anonymised, routinely collected data in the period from January 2016-December 2018, by a Mesothelioma UK-based charity (HASAG). We undertook an exploratory analysis using SPSS v.26 to compare sex-differences between time from symptom onset to diagnosis; immediate support available from next of kin, action in seeking legal advice, and occupation/ exposure. Results showed that there were more very young women ( 50≥ years) with mesothelioma than men 5% women vs. 0.5% men). For women, work-related exposure is often linked to the working environment rather than the direct handling of asbestos. Women were less likely to seek legal advice (60% vs 80% of men) and less likely to receive compensation. A survival analysis showed significant time difference between men and women from time of diagnosis to IIDB award (43 vs 47 (x²= 6.3, df1, p=0.01). The higher prevalence of mesothelioma cases in previously defined low-risk occupations suggest that a long-term low-level of exposure may be causing an increase in mesothelioma cases due to such type of exposure.