What is Mesothelioma – and how Corries are supporting Action Mesothelioma Day

Mesothelioma is a cancer that,for the majority of sufferers, affects the lining of the lung (called the pleura). It can affect other linings of the body including the lining of the heart, the stomach and other organs. The tumour surrounds and presses on the lung and heart.

For this reason Corries are supporting Action Mesothelioma Day (AMD).

Why is  Action Mesothelioma Day (AMD) important?

In the UK we have a high rate of Mesothelioma.  The number of Mesothelioma victims each year is over 2500. In 2014 there were 2717 Mesothelioma cases and latest Health & Safety Executive (HSE) figures for 2015 show the number was 2542.

The HSE statistics confirm that the deaths for those with Mesothelioma are mostly for those aged 70 and above.  In 2015 there were 2135 male deaths and 407 female deaths. Furthermore this shows a continuing clear pattern of asbestos disease affecting both genders.

Action Mesothelioma Day is to raise awareness of this asbestos cancer.

What will the future bring for mesothelioma victims?

It has been hoped that as asbestos exposure has reduced then the number of cases would become less. Asbestos was banned as an import to the UK in 1999. Because there can be a long latent period between exposure to asbestos and the development of Mesothelioma (as much as 50 years or more) numbers still rise. Because of this people not knowing they are exposed to asbestos today may develop disease in many years time.

Medical experts tell lawyers that there will be a peak of Mesothelioma deaths in 2020. They tell us there will be a long and slow decline of numbers for 20 years or more afterwards. It is estimated that asbestos cancer will cause 60,000 or more deaths over the next 25 years.

Does mesothelioma just affect workmen?

Sadly not. At Corries we are seeing an increasing number of people who have not directly worked with asbestos. Many were not immediately aware of being exposed to it.

Traditionally Mesothelioma caused death in people in the building and allied trades, shipyards and other places. It was used where heat insulation was needed such as in refineries, power stations or chemical works.

Unfortunately the statistics show mesothelioma affecting a wider number of people. This includes children and housewives getting the disease due to parents or husbands who came home with asbestos contaminated clothes.

Children exposed to asbestos in schools are suspected to make up between 200 and 300 of the annual deaths due to Mesothelioma. Teachers and other staff such as caretakers, cleaners and canteen staff are also at risk of developing Mesothelioma.

At Corries we are also seeing office workers, retail workers and those in traditional “cleaner” jobs. This can include office staff, laboratory workers and scientists as well as those in sales who develop asbestos disease.

What are Corries doing for Mesothelioma day?

There are a number of events that are being held by different support groups and charities throughout the UK.  Please see the attached link for the Mesothelioma UK site. http://www.mesothelioma.uk.com/news-and-events/news-2017/action-mesothelioma-day-2017/

At Corries we pride ourselves on spending every working hour working for victims of asbestos disease. This year we are holding a simple dress down day, with a raffle, selling baked goods and inviting others to join us. We have spent this week plotting and trying to start raising some money for this worthwhile day and charity.

Who are you raising the money for?

We are raising this money for Mesothelioma UK. This is a leading Mesothelioma charity in Britain. It does tremendous work. In particular it helps to raise the awareness of Mesothelioma. The charity helps to train and provide Mesothelioma specialist nurses throughout the UK and for training and awareness of the condition.

The reality is that Mesothelioma is not going to go away any time soon.  It is currently incurable. Great work is being done by Mesothelioma UK and a large number of clinics and scientists to diagnose, treat and one day cure this condition. Whilst there is no current cure there are a number of exciting and potential investigations. These might either help to find a cure or improve the management and treatment of Mesothelioma victims and their families. Mesothelioma is usually a fatal disease.

Mesothelioma UK has a great website – follow this link for more details http://www.mesothelioma.uk.com/

Corries Comment

Corries Director and Manager of the asbestos team commented:

“I am proud to represent asbestos malignant disease victims every day. I never fail to the amazed by their bravery and that of their families and friends. As a result you cannot act for people like this and not be affected by them. Action Mesothelioma days are a good focal point to make us all stop and pause and think. We will do all we can to help those victims. I know the team here at Corries will dig deep and raise some money to help the charity. If we play a small part in in raising awareness and making others aware of this condition then that would be brilliant “

If you or a family member has been affected by asbestos disease then please contact our specialist team on (0800) 083 7839. We can offer FREE no obligation advice and hep you find the support you need.

Follow this link to our asbestos page for more information https://www.corries.co.uk/asbestos-claims/