7Age & Gender
In general, age does not have a direct effect on the development of mesothelioma cancer. However, the likelihood tends to increase with age. While it may occur in children and young people, the condition is rare in those under 45 years old. The average age of patients is nearly 70 years old due to the latency period. It often takes a few decades until the symptoms show up. [7]
It is noted that more cases of mesothelioma cancer are reported in men rather than women. Scientists have not found out whether there is a possible genetic factor linked to this type of cancer. A possible reason is that men tend to work in jobs with more exposure to asbestos-containing products, such as workers, miners, or firefighters. [8]
