Here is an article recently published by the Asian/Pacific Society of Respirology analyzing the increase of asbestos use and occurence of asbestos-related disease in Asia.

The proportion of global asbestos use attributed to Asia has been steadily increasing over the years from 14% (1920–1970) to 33% (1971–2000) to 64% (2001–2007).

Asbestos use in Asia has now reached formidable levels in terms of per capita use and absolute volumes and a surge of asbestos-related diseases should be anticipated in the coming decades.

An article from the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat by Laurie Kazan Allen analyzing the effects of the increasing utilization of asbestos in Asia.

A comprehensive report curated by Laurie Kazan-Allen on the asbestos-related diseases in India. An economical and political evaluation of the asbestos industry and its implications in society and healthcare stream. Prevention is key, especially in mesothelioma, where the carcinogen, asbestos, is well known and exposure to it can be controlled. Acting now will prevent the inevitable increase of deaths in a near future. India is the third largest user of asbestos after China and Russia (countries where it’s still produced too).