Each year, on the first Friday of July, we recognise Action Mesothelioma Day, also known as Action Meso Day or AMD. This is a national day to raise awareness of asbestos and mesothelioma, to raise funds to help research treatments for mesothelioma, to remember those who have lost their fight to the disease and to support those affected by mesothelioma.
What is mesothelioma and what causes it?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the mesothelium, the protective lining covering the internal organs. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which impacts the lining of the lungs, but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or around the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing for its heat-resistant properties. Inhaled or ingested, asbestos fibres can lodge in the mesothelium, causing inflammation and genetic damage that can eventually lead to cancer.
Symptoms of mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on the type and location of the cancer but generally include persistent and worsening signs as the disease progresses. For pleural mesothelioma, common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and fluid buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion), leading to respiratory difficulties. Peritoneal mesothelioma often presents with abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, and unexplained weight loss.
The legacy of asbestos
Asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, are characterised by a long latency period, this is the time between initial exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms. This latency period can span several decades, typically ranging from 10 to 50 years. The extended latency period often complicates diagnosis, as individuals may not link their current symptoms to asbestos exposure that occurred many years earlier. This delayed onset underscores the importance of regular health monitoring for individuals with known asbestos exposure and highlights the need for heightened awareness and early detection efforts to improve outcomes for those affected by asbestos-related diseases.
Action Meso Day
This Action Meso Day we will be using our online presence to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos and the symptoms of mesothelioma. Although asbestos was banned in the UK 24 years ago, we still regularly hear from people who have had recent exposure to asbestos. It is only through awareness and education that we can ensure a future free of mesothelioma and the suffering it causes.
We will also be attending an event organised by our local asbestos support group, Cheshire Asbestos Victims Support Group (CAVSG). The morning is focused on wellbeing and is full of great speakers. We look forward to learning more about positivity, nutritional therapy and qigong. We will be taking some time to remember all those affected by mesothelioma, we have far too many clients, past and present, who have been affected by this horrible disease, and they will be in our thoughts on Friday.
How we can help
If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition, our expert asbestos disease team can advise whether you can claim compensation. Call us today on 01244 312306 or contact us for a free, no obligation chat to see how we can help you. All of our work is done on a no win, no fee basis.
