Temporal trends in mortality and disability from occupational asbestos exposure in Southeast Asia, 1990-2023.

OBJECTIVE: Occupational asbestos exposure remains a major public health concern in Southeast Asia (SEA), where use persists and comprehensive assessments are limited. METHODS: GBD 2023 data were used to estimate deaths and DALYs attributable to occupational asbestos exposure in SEA and 13 countries. Trends were analyzed by EAPC and Joinpoint, stratified by sex, age, and cause. RESULTS: Deaths increased markedly from 1990 to 2023, with rising ASMR. Males had substantially higher rates than females. Trends showed periods of increase, with continuous rises among females. Most countries showed increasing burden. Tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer was the leading cause, followed by mesothelioma, with highest burden in older adults. CONCLUSIONS: Occupational asbestos exposure burden in SEA has increased with clear sex, age, and regional disparities, highlighting the need for strengthened control and prevention strategies.