MESOTHELIOMA CLAIM – ASBESTOS CANCER COMPENSATION

Mesothelioma is a virulent cancer that affects the membrane lining the lungs, the abdominal cavity or the heart. It is caused by breathing in asbestos fibres and may take up to 50 years for the symptoms to become obvious. Most victims were exposed during employment as a result of ‘at risk’ occupations however other people were exposed secondarily through family members who inadvertently brought asbestos fibres home on their work clothes or on their hair or skin. Although the use of asbestos has now been banned throughout the European Union it is estimated that it will cause the deaths of 250,000 workers.

If you suffer from an asbestos related disease then you may be entitled to Department of Work and Pensions benefits and to a compensation payment under the Pneumoconiosis etc (Workers Compensation) Act 1979. This scheme is for those who cannot bring a mesothelioma claim in the civil courts.

The symptoms of mesolthelioma include shortness of breath, coughing, chest wall pain, anaemia, fatigue and weight loss. The condition is diagnosed by X-ray or CT scan and can be confirmed by use of a biopsy and medical examination including thorascopy by insertion of a miniature camera into the lungs. Treatment is by chemotherapy, radiation or surgery however in all cases the prognosis is poor.

Mesothelioma was first recognized in the eighteenth century however it was not until the twentieth century that it was described in detail and associated with asbestos exposure. Certain occupations are at high risk of workers contracting asbestos related disease including :-

• insulators
• boilermakers
• shipbuilders
• steel workers
• maintenance workers
• pipe fitters
• brake mechanics
• demolition workers

Our specialist personal injury solicitors have extensive experience of mesothelioma claims using the no win no fee scheme. Damages are paid in full with no deductions and our claim service is completely risk free. For free advice just use the helpline or complete the contact form and a member of the Law Society panel of personal injury experts will telephone you with no obligation.