Deaths from Mesothelioma are continuing to rise
The alarming increase comes as a result of widespread historical use of asbestos across the UK. Individuals who worked in the construction industry, which has the highest proportion of mesothelioma deaths, are at a particular risk of developing the disease. They are, however, by no means the only group of people who are at risk of asbestos disease. That list includes a diverse range of occupations: from teachers to chartered surveyors, shipwrights, power station workers and pipe fitters.
The HSE estimates that it will continue to rise until the year 2016
Tragically, the death rate has not yet peaked. The HSE estimates that it will continue to rise until the year 2016, when annual deaths will reach around 2,100 for men. The information released this week shows over 80% of deaths to date have been among men, predominantly due to the nature of those occupations which leave employees vulnerable.
In women, exposure largely comes as a result of from dust brought home by male relatives on their work clothes. Despite accounting for a much lower number of deaths in women than in men, it is important that the loss of women’s lives to asbestos-related cancers is not underestimated. Asbestos is still a very real threat to women, even if that threat is often overlooked.
The destructive effects of asbestos disease are still devastating the lives of men, women and their families
In response to the figures, Ian McFall - Head of Thompsons Solicitors' National Asbestos Litigation Team - said:
“What these figures make clear is that asbestos is still a problem. The destructive effects of asbestos disease are still devastating the lives of men, women and their families across the UK. This isn’t about statistics - the real tragedy is the people behind the numbers. Real people whose lives are being destroyed.
“There is a tendency to assume that the ‘asbestos problem’ is one for the previous generation, that it is ‘yesterday’s issue’ – but in truth we are only now beginning to see the true impact of decades of corporate neglect.
“The tragic legacy left by asbestos is one that we cannot change, but we can seek justice for those who have been exposed and their families and pursue better measures to safeguard future generations from harm.”
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.