What are some of the dangers of asbestos in the home and workplace?
Article Added March 31st, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story
Not many people are aware of a very rare form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. A British Lung Foundation coalition has announced a campaign to educate the British public about the unknown and unseen dangers of asbestos around them as well as the rare effects of exposure to asbestos.
This effort to educate the public is in response to rising number of deaths from mesothelioma. This deadly cancer has been killing one person in the UK every five hours and is steadily increasing. This increased number of deaths from mesothelioma is due to the use of asbestos until the mid 80’s. Typically, the onset of mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos is anywhere between 15 to 60 years. In most instances, the prognosis is within two years of diagnosis. The British Lung Foundation held “Mesothelioma Day” this week aiming at raising the awareness of the deadly cancer. Part of this event will be to educate people on necessary precautions to take when doing home improvement, construction or DIY.
Dame Helena Shovelton, Chief Executive of the British Lung Foundation said, “Mesothelioma destroys the lives of it’s victims and their families. The time between diagnosis and death is short and in the vast majority of cases, people suffer a tortured and agonizing death. We want to encourage more interest in mesothelioma and warn people about the precautions they can take to avoid exposure to asbestos in their homes.”
Asbestos has been banned since the mid-80’s, yet tons of it still exist in buildings throughout the UK. In an effort to prevent future workers from needlessly being exposed to asbestos, the TUC has produced education materials. These materials will hopefully help employers and employees alert of the presence of asbestos in the workplace and to take the necessary precautions to limit and prevent the dangers it poses.
Article Added March 31st, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story
- Ron Eddins, Founding Partner
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