Men are more susceptible to mesothelioma primarily due to occupational exposure to asbestos, the leading cause of this cancer. Historically, men have dominated industries like construction, shipbuilding, mining, and manufacturing, where asbestos was commonly used. These high-risk environments significantly increased men’s chances of inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers, which can later develop into mesothelioma. Additionally, the latency period between asbestos exposure and symptom onset can take decades, further contributing to the higher rates in men. While both men and women are at risk, men account for a much larger percentage of mesothelioma diagnoses due to these occupational hazards.
