Key Takeaways
- New data from the EWG Action Fund, based on asbestos-related death rates per 100,000 people between 1999 and 2017, shows which Pennsylvania counties face the highest exposure impact.
- The top Pennsylvania counties by asbestos-related death rate include Potter County (17.3 per 100,000), Delaware County (12.2), Lawrence County (12.0), Beaver County (11.9), Lebanon County (11.7), Butler County (11.3), Montgomery County (10.6), and Cambria County (10.1).
- Potter County tops the list on a per-capita basis despite having fewer residents, showing that relative risk can be high even in smaller counties, while Allegheny, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties recorded high total death numbers.
- Montgomery and Delaware counties face added exposure risk from legacy mining and industrial sites, including the Gladwyne quarry and Ambler’s BoRit area.
- These numbers reflect ongoing risk, not just history, and because asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma and asbestosis can take decades to appear, residents of high-exposure counties are encouraged to stay informed and document any exposure history.
Pennsylvania has long battled the hidden danger of asbestos. Thanks to new data, we now know which counties face the highest exposure rates, and what that means for families across the state.
Why This Matters in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s industrial past, steel mills, shipyards, power plants, meant widespread asbestos use. Sadly, many people developed illnesses decades later. Today’s data offers insight into where risks were, and still are, the highest.
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How Exposure Is Measured
Experts look at asbestos-related death rates per 100,000 people to see the true impact—especially given differences in county populations. One trusted source, the EWG Action Fund, calculated these rates between 1999–2017.
Counties with the Highest Exposure Rates
Here are the top Pennsylvania counties by asbestos-related death rate:
- Potter County: 17.3 per 100,000
- Delaware County: 12.2 per 100,000
- Lawrence County: 12.0 per 100,000
- Beaver County: 11.9 per 100,000
- Lebanon County: 11.7 per 100,000
- Butler County: 11.3 per 100,000
- Montgomery County: 10.6 per 100,000
- Cambria County: 10.1 per 100,000
Additionally, high total death numbers were documented in counties like Allegheny, Montgomery, and Philadelphia.
Why These Numbers Count
- Potter County tops the chart per capita, even with fewer residents, the relative risk is high.
- Montgomery and Delaware Counties face added exposure from legacy mining sites like Gladwyne quarry and Ambler’s BoRit area
This isn’t just about history, long-term risks remain.
What This Means for Pennsylvania Families
If you or a loved one lives in these counties, it’s important to stay informed. Asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma and asbestosis can appear decades after exposure.
It’s not too late to get checked, document your exposure history, and understand your legal options.
The Halpern Law Firm Can Help
At the Halpern Law Firm, we’ve spent over 35 years helping Pennsylvania residents affected by asbestos exposure, no matter where it happened. We understand the details specific to each county and fight for fair compensation.
Call to Action
If you believe asbestos exposure from your county or job site may have affected your health, don’t wait.
Call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form today. We’ll help you explore your options with care and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Pennsylvania counties have the highest asbestos-related death rates?
Based on EWG Action Fund data from 1999–2017, the highest per-capita rates were in Potter County (17.3 per 100,000), Delaware County (12.2), Lawrence County (12.0), Beaver County (11.9), Lebanon County (11.7), Butler County (11.3), Montgomery County (10.6), and Cambria County (10.1).
How is asbestos exposure risk measured across counties?
Experts look at asbestos-related death rates per 100,000 people rather than raw totals, since this accounts for differences in county populations and gives a clearer picture of relative risk.
Why does Potter County have such a high asbestos-related death rate despite its small population?
Even with fewer residents, Potter County tops the per-capita chart, showing that the relative risk of asbestos exposure can be high in smaller counties, not just large industrial centers.
Why do Montgomery and Delaware counties face added asbestos risk?
These counties have legacy mining and industrial sites, including the Gladwyne quarry and the BoRit Asbestos Site in Ambler, which contribute to elevated exposure risk beyond general industrial history.
What should Pennsylvania residents in high-exposure counties do?
Since mesothelioma and asbestosis can appear decades after exposure, it’s not too late to get checked, document your exposure history, and understand your legal options. Call the Halpern Law Firm at (800) 505-6000 or fill out the contact form for a free consultation.
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