The latency period associated with asbestos-related diseases has meant that the actual dangers associated with asbestos exposure were, until relatively recently, vastly unknown.
Many people who suffer from an asbestos-related disease do not present with symptoms until 40,50, or 60 years after their exposure, and whilst awareness has significantly increased since the ban on asbestos in 1999, many remain unaware of the possible implications.
At Bridge McFarland, our experienced industrial disease solicitors have the knowledge to support clients who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and intend on seeking compensation as a result.
In this article, we highlight the main three asbestos diseases.
Mesothelioma
A malignant cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and stomach, mesothelioma is preventable in approximately 94% of cases. In addition, between 2017 and 2019, there were 2394 mesothelioma-related UK deaths, according to Cancer Research UK.
Regrettably, prognoses related to mesothelioma diagnosis are not often favourable as the illness is usually advanced when symptoms appear. Those who have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma should obtain immediate legal advice from a qualified solicitor to begin a compensation claim as soon as possible, given the disease’s short life expectancy.
Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Smoking is linked to the majority of lung cancer cases. Nevertheless, of all recorded diagnoses, approximately 10% are caused by inhaled asbestos fibres.
The majority of lung cancer cases linked to asbestos usually result from exposure at work. As a result, asbestos-related lung cancer is classified as an ‘industrial disease’ or occupational illness.
The signs of this lung cancer, like those of other asbestos-related diseases, frequently point to other ailments, including mild coughs or flu-like symptoms. Those who have worked in close proximity to asbestos or who fear they may have should see a GP promptly should they face ongoing symptoms.
Asbestosis
Even though asbestosis is not a malignant cancer, breathing becomes difficult because of the lungs’ inability to supply enough oxygen to the bloodstream because of the severe scarring brought on by breathing in tiny asbestos fibres.
For those who have it, asbestosis is often life-changing and can significantly increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Since the term ‘asbestosis’ is frequently overused to refer to any form of asbestos-related sickness, it is unknown how widespread the condition truly is in the UK.
After receiving a diagnosis of asbestosis, like with any other asbestos-related illness, a person should seek the advice of an experienced legal professional to pursue a compensation claim.
Industrial Disease Solicitors UK
At Bridge McFarland, our solicitors work together to ensure that clients are supported from the outset of their matter through to obtaining compensation.
Our UK-based personal injury solicitors are experienced in assisting clients to obtain compensation where they have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and can deal with the matter on a no-win-no-fee basis.
If you have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis or another asbestos-related disease, we can assist you. Please call 01482 320620 or fill out this contact form.
We run Asbestos Awareness, a website dedicated to informing and educating about the implications of asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases. Read more here.
