Familial malignant mesothelioma: a population-based study in central Italy (1980-2012).

Malignant mesothelioma is a sporadic cancer linked to asbestos exposure. Its occurrence among blood relatives (familial mesothelioma) may point to genetic susceptibility or shared exposures. The burden of the familial disease is unknown.

[Occupational exposure to asbestos and incidence of malignant mesothelioma in the Lazio region, years 2001-2009: results of the activities of the regional register].

Background: The Lazio Regional Mesothelioma Registry records the incident cases of Malignant Mesothelioma (MM) in residents in the Region since 2001.

Objectives: Estimate the incidence of MM in the Lazio Region (2001-2009) and assess possible asbestos exposures.

Methods: The MM cases, notified by hospitals, regional protection and workplace safety units, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority, other regions, or extracted from hospital information systems and the regional registry of causes of death, are included in the register after analysis of diagnostic procedures (CT scan, chest X-ray, pathology reports and patients' records).