Understanding mesothelioma: How we support clients with rare asbestos-related lung cancer

When Nichola Hooper’s father was diagnosed with mesothelioma, it came as a devastating shock. A former worker at Cardiff’s East Moors Steelworks, he had unknowingly been exposed to asbestos decades earlier while sweeping dusty floors and working near insulation-lagged steam pipes. Until his diagnosis, he had been a fit and active man who rarely needed medical attention. Tragically, he passed away just six months after receiving the news.

Nichola recalls:

“Dad’s diagnosis completely devastated us. He was given six months, and he passed away six months and one week to the day. It was very difficult to come to terms with his diagnosis as he was a very fit man and, prior to this, rarely visited the doctor. It is a devastating condition and has robbed us as a family.

Hugh James have been second to none. Richard and Maddie have been so helpful and caring every step of the way. Initially, we dealt with Richard, and he showed my dad such care and compassion. I will always hold that close to my heart as it was a very difficult time for us.”

Stories like Nichola’s serve as powerful reminders of the lasting impact of asbestos exposure.

Mr Bird, another of our clients from Mid-Wales, is currently living with mesothelioma. Diagnosed in September 2024 at the age of 78, he remains positive while undergoing a combination of immunotherapy and radiotherapy.

Mr Bird shares:

“After the shock of diagnosis, I knew I needed the best people around me. I was lucky to connect with a brilliant specialist nurse and later reached out to Hugh James. Their help with my mesothelioma claim and state benefits has been outstanding. They’ve lightened the load and made the journey more manageable.”

His experience is a testament to the resilience of those living with mesothelioma and the difference that the right support can make. We are committed to ensuring that those affected by this devastating disease receive the justice and support they deserve.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. It most commonly affects the lining of the lungs, though it can also occur in the abdomen. Despite being banned in the UK more than 20 years ago, asbestos remains in many buildings, and the disease continues to be diagnosed, often decades after exposure.

Mesothelioma symptoms typically include shortness of breath, chest pain, and unexplained weight loss. These signs may appear 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, making early detection challenging.

Over 2,500 people in the UK are diagnosed annually with this condition. While diseases like asbestosis and diffuse pleural thickening also result from asbestos exposure and can cause serious breathing difficulties, they are non-cancerous and typically progress more slowly, whereas mesothelioma can unfortunately be fast moving and aggressive.

How we help clients facing mesothelioma

We specialise in mesothelioma claims and provide compassionate, expert support to individuals and families throughout the UK. Our dedicated asbestos litigation team helps clients understand their legal rights, pursue compensation, and access essential private medical treatment where available.

We’ve represented clients from a wide range of backgrounds, including those exposed to asbestos in workplaces, public buildings, at home through secondary contact with family members, and via contaminated talc products. Our approach combines legal expertise with a personal touch. We work alongside clinical nurse specialists, healthcare providers, support organisations, and expert witnesses to build strong, evidence-based claims that offer clients clarity and choice.

We remain by our clients’ side throughout their journey from the moment of diagnosis, during treatment, and often long after legal matters are resolved. Many of the relationships we build endure beyond the claims process, reflecting our genuine commitment to the people we serve.

Every year, we proudly support Action Mesothelioma Day, a day of reflection, solidarity, and advocacy. It brings together families, campaigners, medical professionals, and support groups to honour those lost to the disease and raise awareness of its continued impact.

Richard Green, Partner and Head of the Asbestos Litigation team, said:

“Supporting Action Mesothelioma Day is deeply personal to our team at Hugh James. Each year, we meet individuals and families whose lives have been changed forever by mesothelioma. Taking part in events like the Blue Light Walk is our way of honouring those affected and showing solidarity with our clients, many of whom face this diagnosis with incredible courage.

By standing together, we not only raise awareness of mesothelioma but also shine a light on the continued efforts needed to stop future diagnoses. I would encourage everyone to visit the Mesothelioma UK website for ideas on how to get involved — whether that’s by fundraising, donating, or simply sharing information to help spread awareness and ensure no one faces this journey alone.”

While mesothelioma remains a life-altering diagnosis, ongoing research is providing hope. It is offering the potential for earlier detection, improved treatments, and enhanced quality of life for those affected. Across the UK, a network of dedicated services is available to help patients, and their loved ones navigate the medical, emotional, and legal challenges that come with the disease.

Mesothelioma UK offers a wealth of information on both historic and current research initiatives. Many cancer centres across the country are also conducting clinical trials that explore new therapies and care pathways. We encourage clients to speak with their treating clinicians about these opportunities if they are interested in exploring additional treatment options.