HSE REPORTS SHOW A DRAMATIC INCREASE IN MESOTHELIOMA DEATHS OVER THE LAST 30 YEARS

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer where there sufferer is found to have affected cells in the mesothelium, which is the protective sac covering most of the body’s internal organs.  The condition mainly affects the lining of the lungs (the pleura) and the area around the lower digestive tract (the peritoneum).

The majority of sufferers develop the condition as a result of inhaling asbestos fibres, usually while at work, and many are able to successfully pursue work related industrial disease claims. 

A significant period of time can elapse between the first exposure to asbestos and diagnosis with the condition.  This is seldom less than 15 years, and can even be up to 60 years.  As a result the current mortality rates is a reflection of the poor working practices and conditions of the UK’s industrial past.

The Health and Safety Executive’s figures indicate that the annual number of deaths from mesothelioma has increased from 153 to 2,037 during the 37 year period 1968 - 2005.  Those most at risk of contracting the condition include metal plate workers (including shipyard workers), vehicle body builders (including for rail vehicles), plumbers, gas fitters, carpenters and electricians.

Current projections suggest that in the UK during the 5 year period 2011 - 2015, the annual death rate could peak at around 2,450.

COMMENT:-

Under current legislation, claims for injury compensation can be made by sufferers (or their bereaved families) against companies who exposed their workers to asbestos, whether or not they are still trading.  If the company no longer exists, but their former insurers can be identified, claims can be pursued directly against those insurers.

PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM SOLICITORS:-

If you have suffered any form of accident at work or have contracted an industrial disease or illness, contact personal injury specialists Hinchliffes Solicitors for immediate legal advice, to find out if you are entitled to make claims for injury compensation.  All cases are dealt with on a No Win - No Fee basis, where the successful Client keeps 100% of the compensation recovered.

Call now on 0800 138 1348 to speak direct to a personal injury lawyer or go to our Start Your Claim Now page to submit details of your personal injury claim online.

Tags: asbestos, claims, Industrial disease, injury compensation, mesothelioma

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 28th, 2008 at 2:35 pm and is filed under ALL NEWS ITEMS, Asbestosis and Mesothelioma, Industrial disease.