The outer surface of most of our internal organs is covered in a lining called ‘Mesothelium’ which contains mesothelial cells. A form of cancer involving these cells is called Mesothelioma and most commonly occurs in the lungs and upper body.

The most common cause of Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Around 80% of people diagnosed with the disease report having been in contact with asbestos at some point in their life, often before the material was banned for safety reasons. The greater the exposure, the greater risk but some patients say they have no history of heavy exposure and may simply be unlucky.

From the 1940s to the 1990s asbestos was used as a fire retardant insulator in construction putting those who worked in that industry at the most risk. Even though it was finally outlawed in 1999 is still poses a risk wherever present.

It is not until up to 50 years after exposure that symptoms start to develop and this is often too late for many. Given the timescale of contamination doctors expect the cases to increase until around 2020 when they should start to see a fall.

There are very few early warning signs for Mesothelioma and they do resemble the symptoms of lesser illnesses but if you experience problems breathing, weight loss, bowel issues and heavy sweating it is worth consulting a doctor just to be safe.

If you do experience any of these symptoms and have been exposed to asbestos in the past it is vital that you first seek medical advice but it is also likely that you are eligible for compensation and it may be worth seeking legal advice.

Want to find out more about Respiratory diseases, then visit the ‘whats-my-claim-worth site for advice on Mesothelioma claims.