Asbestos, once widely used in the construction industry, poses serious health risks that may take decades to appear. Understanding these illnesses, their symptoms, and the long lasting effects is vital for early detection, treatment, and claiming rightful compensation.

At City Environmental Services, we are dedicated to providing support and education of the dangers of asbestos.

The different types of asbestos-related illnesses

There are several different types of Asbestos related illnesses that can be caused from exposure to Asbestos fibres, including:

• Lung cancer
• Mesothelioma (which is cancer of the tissue around the lungs)
• Asbestosis (where the lung tissue becomes scarred)
• Pleural effusion (this is a type of pleurisy, and is the inflammation to the sheet like layers that cover the lungs)
• Pleural plaques (which is the development of hard structures around the lungs and diaphragm)

Early diagnosis of an asbestos-related illness is important because it allows for timely management of symptoms, improves treatment options, and those affected seek compensation and support sooner.

Understanding the lesser known asbestos-related illnesses

Knowing about different illnesses caused by asbestos exposure and the symptoms to look out for is really important. Mesothelioma and Asbestosis are the least known illnesses, so here is some more information surrounding symptoms, diagnosis, and support.

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 than 2,600 people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma each year in the UK. The majority of them are men aged between 60 and 80 years old.

Unfortunately, it's rarely possible to cure Mesothelioma, although treatment can help control the symptoms, and research is continually evolving. 

Please find a link below to the NHS website for more information on Mesothelioma: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mesothelioma/ 

Asbestosis:

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by long-term exposure to asbestos fibres. When inhaling asbestos fibres, they enter the lungs and can gradually damage the lung tissue over time by leaving scarring and inflammation. This scarring makes the lung tissue stiff and less able to expand, leading to difficulty breathing and reduced lung function.

Some of the symptoms include:

• Shortness of Breath
• Persistent Cough
• Wheezing
• Tiredness/ Fatigue
• Pain in the chest and or shoulders

Symptoms of asbestosis often take 20 to 30 years to appear after initial exposure to asbestos dust. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for asbestosis, and lung damage caused by the disease is irreversible. Instead, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Support groups like HASAG are often a great comfort, providing emotional support, practical advice, and assistance with navigating compensation claims and accessing medical care. For more information, please visit their website: https://hasag.co.uk/

Who is most at risk of asbestos exposure?

The straightforward answer is that anyone can be exposed to asbestos fibre. However, certain individuals face a higher risk due to their environment or occupation.

For example, contractors who worked in older buildings constructed or refurbished between the 1960s and 1990s are at a higher risk of inhaling asbestos fibres. These buildings often contain asbestos products such as brake linings, floor tiles, and insulation materials, increasing the likelihood of exposure.

Asbestos compensation claims

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, you are likely entitled to financial compensation, even if the exposure happened decades ago. You can pursue a civil claim or apply for government lump-sum payments and weekly benefits like the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. A specialist asbestos solicitor can help you navigate the paperwork.

Some helpful foundations or 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

City Environmental Services' role in asbestos testing and removal

At City Environmental Services, we are dedicated to protecting businesses and the public from the dangers of asbestos dust and asbestos products. Our specialist team provides thorough asbestos testing and safe removal services to ensure compliance with safety regulations, reducing the risk of asbestos-related illness and lung damage caused by inhaling asbestos fibres.

If you're a business owner concerned about asbestos exposure in your workplace or a homeowner worried about asbestos fibres in your residential space, contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases?

Common symptoms include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, and fatigue. These signs result from lung damage caused by inhaling asbestos fibres and may indicate conditions like asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma. Early medical screening is therefore crucial for effective management and treatment.

How long does it take for asbestos-related illnesses to develop after exposure?

The latency period for asbestos-related illness often ranges from 20 to 30 years after the initial exposure to asbestos dust or fibres, however, it can be much longer. This means symptoms may not appear until many years after inhaling asbestos fibres, making early detection and monitoring crucial for those at risk.

Can I claim compensation if I have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease?

Yes. Individuals diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease can claim compensation. It is important to start the claims process within the three-year time limit from the date of diagnosis. Specialist asbestos lawyers can assist with personal injury claims to ensure you receive a fair compensation award.

Is it possible to make an asbestos claim on behalf of a loved one who has passed away due to an asbestos-related illness?

Yes. Family members can claim compensation on behalf of a loved one who died from an asbestos-related disease. This includes claims related to mesothelioma patients and other asbestos victims. Experienced asbestos lawyers and support groups can guide families through the legal process, helping them understand their rights and navigate complex personal injury claims to secure fair compensation.

What are the risk factors that increase the chance of developing asbestos-related lung cancer?

Risk factors include prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibres, smoking, and exposure to asbestos products such as brake linings and floor tiles. In particular, smoking combined with asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Early detection through chest x-rays and lung damage screening is essential for managing these health risks effectively and improving patient outcomes.



What other asbestos-related diseases should I be aware of, and what legal options do I have?

In addition to the well-known asbestos-related illnesses mentioned above, exposure to asbestos fibres can also lead to other serious pleuropulmonary diseases, such as diffuse pleural thickening and peritoneal mesothelioma. These conditions affect the membranes surrounding the lungs, potentially restricting lung function and causing severe respiratory distress.