Asbestos Related Illnesses
There are several different types of Asbestos related illnesses that can be caused from exposure to Asbestos fibres, some of these illnesses being -
· Asbestosis – Where the lung tissue becomes scarred.
· Lung cancer.
· Mesothelioma, which is cancer of the tissue around the lungs.
· Pleural effusion, a type of pleurisy – This is inflammation to the sheet like layers that cover the lungs.
· Pleural plaques, which are hard structures around the lungs and diaphragm.
Who can be exposed to Asbestos fibres?
The easy answer to this question is that anyone can be exposed to asbestos fibres however some people are more likely to be exposed then others.
If you are a contractor (On the Tools) and work in older Buildings that were built or refurbished around the 1960’s- 1990’s then you are more likely to be exposed.
More about Mesothelioma:
Mesothelioma is a malignant tumour that is caused by exposure to asbestos fibres and forms in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. Some symptoms of Mesothelioma can include shortness of breath and chest pain.
More then 2,600 people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma each year in the UK, The majority of them being Men aged between 60 to 80 Years old.
Unfortunately, it's rarely possible to cure Mesothelioma, although treatment can help control the symptoms and research is continually evolving.
A link attached, showing new developments in Asbestos related Illness –
Asbestosis:
Asbestosis is a lung condition caused by long-term exposure to asbestos fibres. When asbestos fibres are inhaled they enter the lungs and can gradually damage them over time by leaving scarring.
Some of the symptoms include:
· Shortness of Breathe
· Persistent Cough
· Wheezing
· Tiredness/ Fatigue
· Pain in the chest and or shoulders
Some helpful foundations/ charities below, for further advice and/ or support:
· British Lung Foundation – helpline 03000 030 555
· Cancer Research UK: Mesothelioma – Helpline 0808 800 4040
· Mesothelioma UK: Helpline 0800 169 2409
Please find a link below to the NHS website for more information on Mesothelioma- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mesothelioma/