Asbestos: Still a Present Problem

The use and importation of blue and brown asbestos was banned in the UK in 1985, but white asbestos wasn’t banned until 1999.

Despite being banned more than 20 years ago, asbestos remains a present problem; it is found in both public and private buildings built before the ban. It continues to pose a very real health risk.

Asbestos-related diseases

The inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to a number of diseases. These are:

·         Mesothelioma: More than 2,500 people in the UK are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is a devastating and fatal form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure – and there is currently no cure.

·         Asbestosis: This is a serious lung condition caused by prolonged and excessive exposure to asbestos. The main symptom is shortness of breath, but other symptoms include chest pain, coughing and chest tightness. Oxygen therapy can help ease symptoms, but there is no cure.

·         Pleural thickening: Asbestos can lead to pleural thickening – this is where asbestos fibres cause scarring of the lungs, leading to thickening of the pleural lining. While the condition cannot be cured, it can be treated.

·         Lung cancer: The inhalation of asbestos fibres can increase the risk of a person developing lung cancer. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, a long-term cough, loss of appetite and weight loss. It may be possible to treat the lung cancer with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.

Who Can Be Affected By Asbestos?

Asbestos diseases have historically been more commonly associated with builders, plumbers, electricians, fitters, boilermakers, carpenters, joiners and ship builders. Family members of those working where there is asbestos can also be affected, as it is possible to carry the fibres on clothing.

However, anyone who has worked, lived or played somewhere where asbestos is present could be at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.

The types of people presenting with asbestos-related diseases now are increasingly not from the typical professions of the past. More and more people, such as teachers, health professionals, office workers etc., have been exposed in the buildings where they work because of poorly maintained asbestos.

Advice For Those Diagnosed With An Asbestos-Related Disease

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease in the last three years, you may be able to make an asbestos claim for compensation.

If you think you may have a case, it’s important to contact a specialist asbestos law firm as soon as possible.

Author Bio:

Thompsons Solicitors brought the first-ever successful case for asbestos-related disease compensation in the UK to the House of Lords in 1972. They have been involved in every significant asbestos case since.