Mesothelioma is a devastating and fatal cancer which is caused by exposure to asbestos, a material used in construction and in many industries until the 1980s. It is a particularly insidious form of cancer, as symptoms do not usually appear until years after exposure, and by the time it is diagnosed, it is often too late for effective treatment. In the UK, mesothelioma is a major public health issue, and the cost of treating and managing the disease is considerable.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a material used in construction and many industries until the 1980s, when its health risks were finally recognised. Asbestos is still present in many older buildings, and the health risks associated with it are still very real.
In the UK, there are around 2,500 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed each year. This is a significant public health issue, and the cost of treating and managing the disease is substantial. The cost of treating mesothelioma can range from £20,000 to £100,000 per patient, depending on the stage of the disease, the type of treatment required and the patient’s individual circumstances.
The cost of mesothelioma is also felt by families and carers. Mesothelioma can have a devastating impact on the lives of patients and their families, both emotionally and financially. Many families have to cope with the costs of lost wages, carer’s costs, and the cost of adapting their home to accommodate the patient.
The high cost of mesothelioma has led to calls for the UK government to take action. In 2014, the government announced that it would introduce a Mesothelioma Bill, which would make it easier for victims of mesothelioma to claim compensation. This bill has yet to become law, but it is hoped that it will help to reduce the financial burden of mesothelioma on patients and their families.
Mesothelioma is a devastating and fatal cancer, and the costs associated with it are considerable. Treating and managing the disease can be incredibly expensive, and the emotional and financial burden on patients and their families can be immense. It is hoped that the proposed Mesothelioma Bill will help to reduce the cost of mesothelioma in the UK, and provide some financial relief to those affected by this terrible disease.