Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumour of the
mesothelium. The mesothelium is a lubricating lining or layer
around some of the major organs in the body.
Mesothelioma most commonly affects
the pleura (the lining around the lung). It
can also affect the peritoneum (the lining of the
abdominal cavity) and less commonly the
pericardium (the lining around the heart).
Asbestos exposure is by far the most common known
cause of mesothelioma. The risk of mesothelioma increases with the
amount of asbestos someone has been exposed to.
Mesothelioma on average develops to
the stage that it causes symptoms around 40 years after exposure to
asbestos. Shorter periods of around 20 years are less common but
not unheard of. Periods of 10 years or less are very rare,
primarily because the tumour is thought to begin to grow about 10
years before symptoms begin to be felt. Compensation and benefits
are available.
To find out more contact us now on 029 2078 5971 or email
asbestos@hughjames.com
Other asbestos related illnesses
include:
back to top