Asbestos, Mesothelioma and Related Diseases

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is an insulating material that is fire and heat resistant. It was originally considered to be a miracle substance because it was both virtually indestructible and flexible and therefore could be woven and used for many industrial purposes.

Although asbestos fibres are small, they can be inhaled. The fibres work their way into the lungs, and sometimes into the membrane surrounding the abdomen and the heart.

These tiny particles remain dormant in these areas, sometimes for decades. The damage caused by asbestos fibres can include pleural plaques, pleural thickening, asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma, amongst other conditions.

Pleural plaques

Exposure to asbestos might cause pleural plaques, which are inflamed and scarred areas of the lung lining. Sometimes this will not cause a problem, although in severe cases, they may cause pain, difficulty in breathing and anxiety. In England & Wales, it may not possible to make a claim if you suffer only from pleural plaques, but the condition can be an indication that a more serious condition could develop.

Pleural thickening

This is a non-malignant disease in which the lining of the lung thickens and although it is not life-threatening, there is currently no cure.

Asbestosis

This is a scarring of the lung tissue that can occur alongside pleural plaques and pleural thickening. There are different scales of asbestosis but  it can restrict breathing and often be degenerative. It can take many years for the disease to manifest following exposure to asbestos.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is a malignant tumour or tumours that obstruct the airways. Although the relationship between lung cancer and asbestos is uncertain, it is widely known that lung tumours can be seen in those who were heavily exposed to asbestos.

Mesothelioma

This is a cancer of the pleural lining of the lung and sometimes the peritoneal lining of the abdomen. There are different types of mesothelioma but it is incurable. The time between exposure to asbestos and onset of the disease can be between 15 and 60 years.

Compensation

Except in the case of pleural plaques in England and Wales, claimants can seek compensation from those at fault for allowing them to be exposed to asbestos, if they develop a serious medical condition as a result. This could be their former employer or others working near them. If the company is no longer in business, in certain circumstances, a claim can still be pursued.

If you have suffered a serious medical condition as a result of exposure to asbestos, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. Contact Accident Line and we will put you in touch with a local specialist solicitor who will advise you. Alternatively, you can use our find my local 'Injury Solicitors' section and contact your local Accident Line solicitor directly.