Forum to address mesothelioma

The Australian Mesothelioma Register Stakeholder Forum, convened by the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (ASCC), was held late February, bringing together a range of experts and interested stakeholders to discuss the purpose and scope of the Australian Mesothelioma Register, how best to collect and use information and governance and ethical considerations.

ASCC Chairman Bill Scales AO said: “The ASCC is committed to the ongoing improvement of mesothelioma data collection in Australia.”

Discussion at the forum focused on the purposes, role and uses of information on mesothelioma, how to ensure complete coverage of new mesothelioma cases and how best to collect information on past exposure to asbestos of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma.

The forum was attended by representatives of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Cancer Australia, state and territory cancer registries, asbestos disease research groups, the NSW Dust Diseases Board, asbestos disease support groups and ASCC members or their representatives.

The forum discussions will be used to assist the ASCC, or its replacement body, to make decisions about the future collection of information on mesothelioma.

Further information about the work of the ASCC and statistical reports and literature reviews on mesothelioma can be found at www.ascc.gov.au.