Hohes Niveau asbestassoziierter Todesfälle: Fruherkennungsprogramme und ihre ambivalente Wirkung

High levels of asbestos-related deaths: Early detection programs and their ambivalent effects (Interview) The number of asbestos-related deaths due to occupational diseases remains high. the German Social Accident Insurance (DGuV) reported 1520, 1623, and 1328 fatalities in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. To address this, occupational associations offer early detection programs. Since 1973, preventive medical check-ups have been carried out for employees formerly exposed to asbestos as part of secondary prevention. however, anxiety and uncertainty about the disease can deter individuals from participating, impacting the program’s effectiveness.