Recent reports have shown that even teachers and hospital staff are vulnerable to the mineral, causing a rise in mesothelioma cases.

What is asbestos and why is it harmful?

Asbestos is a group of minerals made of microscopic fibres. When these fibres are breathed in they can cause damage to your lungs and lead to conditions such as non-malignant pleural disease, asbestosis, asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Why are schools and hospitals at risk of asbestos related diseases?

Before the dangers of asbestos were known, it was often used in buildings for insulation, flooring and roofing. Although its use is now banned in the UK, any building constructed before the year 2000 may still contain asbestos.

The Joint Union Asbestos Committee (JUAC) claims it would take decades to remove asbestos from hospitals, schools and universities across the UK – and 9 out of 10 NHS trusts say that they have hospitals containing asbestos. NHS Resolution deals with litigation for the health service and works on around 50 claims per year relating to asbestos, however, they believe claims may be higher as many hospitals deal with these cases privately.

What is asbestos-related lung cancer?

Asbestos has microscopic fibres that are easily inhaled when working with the substance; after working with the fibre for many years, it becomes stuck in the lung tissue, causing damage and resulting in cancer.

Adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, small-cell carcinoma and large-cell carcinoma, are the four main types of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure, and just like other conditions caused by asbestos, asbestos-related lung cancer can take decades to develop, often showing symptoms between 20 and 40 years later.

What is the difference between mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer?

Although asbestos-related cancer and mesothelioma are both located in the lungs, they are different conditions. Mesothelioma is a cancer which grows in the lining of the lungs – but asbestos-related lung cancer, on the other hand, affects the lung tissue itself.

What regulations are in place to protect me?

For many professions, exposure to asbestos cannot be avoided; however, there are many measures employers must put in place to protect their employees. According to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, employers are required to inspect the workplace to check for asbestos, carry out risk assessments on materials containing asbestos, and put measures in place in order to prevent and control exposure of asbestos to staff and others.

As an employee, you can also take precautions to protect yourself, including always ensuring your employer provides the appropriate training before starting work, wearing protective gear when handling asbestos, not taking home overalls used for asbestos work and always adhering to the appropriate regulations when disposing of the material.

Instructing MLA for an Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Report

As the undisputed leader in Industrial Disease Medical Reports, MLA understands the complexities of asbestos-related lung cancer claims. We know these particular cases require expert evidence from Respiratory Physicians, Oncologists and Occupational Hygienists to assist the parties and the court.

When you instruct MLA for an Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Medical Report, we’ll choose the right medical professional from our expert panel who will provide a detailed report that covers medical history, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis – as well as advising on the level of respiratory disability and any reduction in life expectancy as a result of the diagnosis.

To speak to one of our experts, get in touch.