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Industrial Disease

Asbestos Related Claims

Asbestos affects as many as 1 in 100 men over the age of 40 in this country, as well as many women. Asbestos has no respect for socio-economic group or occupation.

Most people label all asbestos-related diseases "asbestosis", but that is only one type of asbestos-related illness. In fact, the majority of people affected by asbestos have benign pleural disease (either plaques or thickening of the lining of the lung). Unfortunately, some people do develop asbestos-related malignancies (either mesothelioma or lung cancer) which are usually fatal.

The Harkin Lloyd Industrial Disease Team deals exclusively with claims for victims of asbestos related diseases. For free initial advice call us on 0151 255 0740 or click on the relevant heading on the right.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which affects the covering of the lung (pleura) and, less commonly, the lining of the abdomen (the peritoneum).

The only known cause of mesothelioma is being exposed to asbestos i.e. approximately 95% of cases.

The disease can take 20 to 50 years (or more) to develop following exposure.

The most common exposure to asbestos is in the workplace although people who have lived near asbestos factories or in buildings where asbestos was present are known to have developed mesothelioma.

It may be possible to obtain compensation from the employers who exposed the sufferer to asbestos dust. Where the company is no longer in existence, we are often able to trace original employers liability insurers who would pay compensation if the claim succeeds.

If the person who suffered from mesothelioma has died, the claim can still be made on behalf of their estate and any dependants subject to a three year limitation period.

We will be pleased to give you free advice in relation to your case. Call us on 0151 255 0740.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a form of lung or pulmonary fibrosis (damage) caused by inhaling large quantities of asbestos dust and fibre over a period of time. The asbestos fibres which are inhaled irritate the lung and cause the formation of scar tissue which damages the delicate structure of the lung. This may prevent the absorption of oxygen by the lung leading to breathlessness. First symptoms usually arise 20 years or more following initial asbestos exposure.

Pleural thickening

The lung is encased by a fine lining called the pleura. In its healthy state it is well-lubricated and expands easily as we breathe. However, the lining can become damaged by breathing in asbestos dust and fibres over a period of time. The pleura may become thickened by asbestos damage and create a restrictive enclosure in which the lung finds it difficult to expand. Pleural thickening can cause pain and breathlessness.

Pleural plaques

Pleural plaques is the name given to scarring of the lining of the lung caused by asbestos. This form of scarring is benign and does not usually cause any significant symptoms. Plaques indicate that you have in the past been exposed to asbestos in unprotected conditions and you may have a slightly increased risk of going on to develop a more serious asbestos-related illness in the future.

Lung Cancer

Some lung cancers may be due to asbestos exposure. If a member of your family dies as the result of an asbestos related disease, you may be able to take legal action. If we can obtain evidence to prove that a past employer negligently exposed the deceased to asbestos you may be able to claim compensation. You may still be able to claim compensation even if the employer has ceased to exist. 

To discuss any of these matters contact Jean Harkin on 0151 255 0740 or email her to discuss your enquiry.