Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma or mesothelioma cancer is a disease caused by exposure to asbestos. In the UK about 2,500 people a year are diagnosed with mesothelioma, and although it is considered rare it is becoming more common with the number of new cases in the UK predicted not to peak for several years. Mesothelioma is a tumour in the pleura (lining of the lungs) or the peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity). Whether the tumour is associated with the lungs or the abdomen is usually related to inhalation or ingestion of asbestos. The average period between first exposure and diagnosis of this condition is 40 years.

Most cases of mesothelioma are caused by exposure to asbestos. It is usually found in people who suffered large exposures to asbestos, however, it has been known to occur in people who have suffered relatively light exposure. Poole Alcock has helped people with apparently relatively light exposure, successfully secure compensation.

The risk of developing mesothelioma increases in proportion to the amount of asbestos inhaled. At present there is no evidence of a threshold dose (minimum level of exposure) below which there is no risk.

As the tumour and fluid surround and compress the lung, breathlessness often occurs. This can be accompanied by chest pain, weight loss, feeling generally unwell and excessive night sweats.

How it is caused

Mesothelioma is most commonly caused as a result of exposure to asbestos, a natural material found in rock and minerals made up of fibres. It is these fibres that can become lodged in the body when inhaled or digested, causing genetic mutations and tumours. Symptoms of the disease take between 20 to 50 years to develop.

Exposure comes most typically from working in industrial occupations like construction, manufacturing or ship building. This goes some way to explain why there are five times as many cases in men as in women in the UK.

Poole Alcock have successfully represented victims of asbestos who have developed mesothelioma whilst working in a range of different jobs, trades and professions including:

• lorry drivers loading and unloading asbestos products
• joiners
• plumbers
• electricians
• boiler makers

Those exposed to asbestos second hand, for example from the clothes of someone working with the material, can also develop mesothelioma. There are also rare cases where the cancer has developed as a result of living near large deposits of the material, such as mining areas.

The number of people employed in or exposed to asbestos production peaked during the 1960s, when asbestos was used in manufacturing and building on a large scale, due its strength and resistance. Although the link to asbestos and cancer was well established, even by the 1950s, it was not banned in the UK until 1999.

Depending on the cause, it may be possible to claim compensation for mesothelioma, which would cover medical costs and financial redress. Our personal injury lawyers, based in Cheshire, can advise you on doing this.

Experts in Mesothelioma Claims

Poole Alcock Solicitors are experts in bringing claims on behalf of Asbestos victims throughout the UK. We are dedicated to getting you every penny of compensation that you deserve.

We work on a No Win No Fee Basis.

If you would like a free consultation to discuss your options, please complete the contact form below or call us for free on 0800 389 7093.