Mesothelioma: What is it, who could be affected, and do you have a legal case after being exposed to asbestos?

If you have been negligently exposed to asbestos you may be able to recover compensation via a legal claim

Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related disease, and those who suffer from it as a result of negligent exposure to asbestos at work, may be able to recover compensation via a legal claim.

The danger of asbestos

Exposure to asbestos is a big issue in the UK, with more people dying annually from asbestos exposure than in road traffic accidents. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer. Fewer than 10% of the roughly 2,700 people per year in the UK diagnosed with mesothelioma live beyond three years.

Help for patients and their families to deal with the various challenges that a diagnosis may bring

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease, Wilkin Chapman’s team of legal professionals can help you to recover compensation to enable you to access the support you need.

What is mesothelioma?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre which was commonly used in the construction industry in the UK from the 1950s to the late 1990s, before the dangers were widely known.

Mesothelioma is a disease caused by asbestos that affects the mesothelium, a thin membrane that lines the chest wall and abdomen.

It has a long latency period, meaning that most people diagnosed with the condition are over the age of 60.

Who can be exposed to asbestos

Shipping, steel and construction workers were traditionally most at risk of asbestos exposure. However, as asbestos was only banned in the UK in 1999, it can still be found in premises across the country in both domestic and non-domestic settings.

Public sector workers including teachers and nurses have been exposed to asbestos fibresdue to its prevalence in many public buildings.

How we can help

While compensation unfortunately can’t reverse the devastating consequences of an asbestos related disease like mesothelioma, it can help patients and their families to deal with the various challenges that a diagnosis may bring.

There are specific court rules which apply only to mesothelioma claimants due to the aggressive nature of the disease. It is a specialist area of law and we are well placed to deal with complex cases thanks to our experience and contacts with other experts including medical experts, engineers and barristers at the forefront of this field.

Need help?

If you would like further information please contact Ruth Craven.