Asbestos fibres Home | Services | Services for you | Personal Injury | Asbestos related claims | Asbestos related diseases factsheet

Asbestos related diseases factsheet

Many thousands of people are affected by illnesses which have been caused by exposure to asbestos.  The exposure may have occurred many years ago, generally during the course of a person’s employment.

Asbestos has been used extensively in many industries including Power Stations, Shipping and Dockyards and Railway works.  It has been widely used as pipe and boiler insulation, fireproofing material, brake linings and in building panels.

When asbestos is disturbed or damaged, dust and fibers are released and if inhaled can lead to asbestos related conditions as explained below:

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumour which can affect the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma) and the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma).  Malignant mesothelioma is a fatal illness, although there are a number of treatments and some surgical interventions which can increase life expectancy.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is generalised scarring in the lung tissue (or pulmonary fibrosis) caused by exposure usually to fairly heavy quantities of asbestos.  The condition generally speaking progresses more slowly, is not necessarily fatal but can lead to severe breathing difficulties and finger clubbing.

Lung Cancer

There is evidence that asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly in a person who is or has been a smoker.

Diffuse Pleural Thickening

Diffuse pleural thickening is a thickening of the tissue around the lungs which forms a “blanket” restricting the movement of the lung.  This can lead to breathlessness.

Pleural Plaques

Pleural plaques are areas of scarring to the tissues and lining surrounding the lungs and are not generally thought to cause symptoms.  However, they are an indicator that a person has been exposed to asbestos.

Time Limits for bringing a Claim

The time limits for claiming compensation are 3 years from the date you knew or ought to have known that you were suffering from an asbestos related illness caused as a result of your employment.  Where a person has died the time limit is generally 3 years from the date of death.  In exceptional circumstances the Court may be willing to extend the time limit and legal advice should be taken promptly in these circumstances.

Email this page

Get in touch

Sara Hunt

Associate
T: 08700 86 4221
I: +44 (0)121 625 4221
E: sara.hunt@shoosmiths.co.uk