Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, a material that was widely used in the UK until 1999. It is estimated that around 2,500 people in the UK are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year and this number is expected to continue to rise for the foreseeable future.
Asbestos was used in a variety of products including insulation, floor tiles, roofing, paints, and even brake pads for cars. It was a great material for its time, as it was strong, fireproof, and relatively cheap; however, it is now known that asbestos particles can cause serious health problems when inhaled. When these particles enter the lungs, they can cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to mesothelioma.
Asbestos was used extensively in the UK until 1999, when the government finally banned its use. Unfortunately, this means that those who were exposed to asbestos before this date are still at risk of developing mesothelioma. It usually takes around 20-50 years for the cancer to develop, and people who were exposed to asbestos in the past are now starting to be diagnosed with the disease.
Mesothelioma is a devastating illness that is often fatal within 12-24 months of diagnosis. Treatment options are limited and the cost of care can be high. As a result, the UK is facing a growing health crisis as more and more people are diagnosed with this deadly cancer.
The UK government has taken steps to try to address the issue, such as providing financial assistance to those diagnosed with mesothelioma. Several charities have also been set up to help those affected, and to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos exposure.
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid contact with asbestos. If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos in the past, it is important to talk to your doctor about it. In some cases, it may be possible to have an asbestos-related illness diagnosed before it develops into mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is a devastating and incurable illness, and the UK is facing a growing health crisis as more and more people are diagnosed with this deadly cancer. It is essential that more is done to raise awareness and to ensure that those affected have access to the support and treatment they need.