Report predicts the increase of asbestos related cancer
The latest Mesothelioma Audit Report , from the National Lung Cancer audit, highlights that asbestos related cancer still remains a very important issue in Devon and Cornwall. Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the lining that covers the outer surface of some of the body’s organs, most notably the lungs. It’s usually linked to asbestos exposure with no cure and a terminal prognosis. Taking decades to develop it closely relates to the shipbuilding; engineering; manufacturing; and construction industries in the Westcountry. Those who worked in these industries during 1950s, 60s and 70s, when the use of asbestos was prevalent are most at risk.
The report reveals that in 2014 there were 2,179 patients diagnosed with Mesothelioma in England. This is an increase from the previous report figure of 1,748 and the number of cases is expected to grow until peaking at some point between 2020-25. The South West has one of the highest proportions of cases with 202 reported in 2014. The patients affected are predominantly male and the majority falling into the 60 to 85 age group. However, there are still a substantial number of females (17%) who have been diagnosed. Many of these are family members of workers exposed to asbestos from contact with their husband or their clothes.
New information reveals variation in diagnosis, treatment and outcomes
The results show reassuringly high levels of early pathological confirmation of mesothelioma and encouraging trends towards higher treatment rates and survival. The proportion of patients with good performance status receiving chemotherapy has increased from 41% to 54%. The proportion of patients surviving 1 year after diagnosis has improved from 40% to 43%, but still remains quite low. While these results are promising, there remains significant variation in treatment and outcomes across cancer networks in England.
James Walsh, leading industrial disease solicitor and accredited asbestos specialist of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) emphasises the importance of quality care for patients diagnosed with mesothelioma. In many cases people do not even know they have been exposed to asbestos until 30 or more years after, when they are diagnosed. The devastating disease is life changing to both the patient and their family. It is paramount to ensure that patients have the best standards of care available and sufficient compensation can assist and take some of the burden away from the NHS and family members who have to devote hours of time to care for their loved ones. Mr Walsh has been working with asbestos victims for over 20 years and helped hundreds of clients and their families to receive the support and compensation they deserve.
Compensation claim advice
Asbestos related cancers are a time lapse disease normally developing decades after the person has been exposed to asbestos at work. For this reason people can hesitate bringing a claim. At GA Solicitors we have an effective and compassionate approach ensuring liable employers and their insurers quickly admit their responsibility. We obtain early interim payments and help to recover hundreds of thousands pounds compensation on behalf of mesothelioma sufferers and importantly their families at such a difficult time.
Although, it can take a long time for symptoms to develop, there are strict time limits in place to make such a claim, once the symptoms appear and diagnosis has been made.
If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related illness including mesothelioma; lung cancer; asbestosis: pleural thickening; and pleural plaques you can telephone GA solicitors now on 01752 203500 for a free specialised claim assessment. Alternatively, you can email James Walsh on james.walsh@GAsolicitors.com.
Source: National Lung Cancer Audit: Pleural mesothelioma report 2016. London: Royal College of Physicians, 2016.
