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You are in: Home Page | News Desk | News Story

14th April 2009

New research reinforces asbestos dangers

All commercial asbestos fibres cause lung cancer and mesothelioma

The report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IRAC), part of the World Health Organisation (WHO), said all types of asbestos, including white asbestos commonly used in artex and office buildings, cause cancer.

White asbestos was used in the construction of many offices, schools, council houses and public buildings built before the 1970s and can often still be found in them.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lung caused by asbestos

Ian McFall head of asbestos policy at Thompsons Solicitors said: “While this report does not provide us with new information on asbestos it does reinforce the dangers of all types of asbestos. It is important those working with asbestos or those who live and work in environments where asbestos is present are made aware of the risks of this dangerous material and are given training on how to work amongst it safely.

“We cannot afford to be complacent about this substance, which is responsible for more than 2,000 people every year being diagnosed with mesothelioma in the UK.”

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lung caused by asbestos. It can lie dormant for up to 40 years and there is no cure.

Asbestos was first linked to cancer by researchers in the 1930s

The IRAC identifies causes of cancer so preventative measures can be put in place. The report is seen as the next chapter in the prevention of asbestos-related cancers.

It says the prevailing medical evidence is irrefutable as to asbestos’ carcinogenicity.

Asbestos was first linked to cancer by researchers in the 1930s but the use of all types of asbestos wasn’t banned in the UK until 1999.

Thompsons Solicitors act for thousands of people and their families affected by asbestos. Many worked with asbestos during the 1950s, 60s and 70s, while others were exposed to asbestos dust on family member’s overalls. Some were exposed to asbestos contained within walls, ceiling tiles and used as boiler lagging.

This news story was also published by the Chronicle Live.

Compensation Claim Advice

If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related disease, telephone us now for accurate compensation claim advice.

There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.

Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.