Receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma is a devastating and emotional time for you and your loved ones. If you’re suffering, you could be entitled to make a mesothelioma claim for compensation. Speak to our legal experts today.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which can occur in the mesothelium which is the membrane that lines the inner surface of the chest wall, known as the pleura and also the abdomen, known as the peritoneum and the testicles.
Mesothelioma is caused by breathing in asbestos dust. Inhalation of asbestos dust causes damage to the cells of the pleura, the outer lining of the lungs and the internal chest wall, and it's thought that over time this damage results in changes which can eventually turn them into cancerous cells.
Although mesothelioma of the pleura is the most common form, mesothelioma of the abdomen, or peritoneum can also occur. This is because the mesothelium also surrounds the heart and intestines.
The average time for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos dust is around 40 years, but it can develop (or cause symptoms) after 10 years from the initial exposure.
There are approximately 2,500 people a year in the UK who are diagnosed with mesothelioma, the majority of which are men.
If you've been exposed to asbestos, even if it was many years ago, there is a risk that you may develop mesothelioma. Our mesothelioma solicitors are here to help, contact us about beginning a compensation claim.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include breathlessness, a persistent cough, chest pain, tiredness, loss of appetite and weight loss. However, as mesothelioma can also affect the stomach, heart and testes, you should also be aware of any new pains or changes to any of these parts of the body.
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, particularly if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, you should see your GP right away. In the event of a diagnosis mesothelioma, you should also consider making a claim for compensation.
How is mesothelioma usually diagnosed?
While some of the symptoms of mesothelioma may be apparent with just a stethoscope, it's likely that your GP will send you for further tests to determine if the linings of the lungs, heart or stomach show signs of mesothelioma, including:
X-Rays
CAT Scans
Ultrasound Scans
Biopsies
Analysis of pleural and peritoneal fluid
These tests will either confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma, or rule it out. In the case that mesothelioma is diagnosed, it will be graded on a scale of one to four using the International Mesothelioma Interest Group (IMIG) staging system, to determine how far the disease has advanced and what sort of treatment may be possible. In the event of such a diagnosis, you may wish to speak to an experienced solicitor to discuss the possibility of compensation for your illness.
What treatment is available for mesothelioma?
Although there's no known cure for mesothelioma, there are treatments which may be available to help ease suffering, such as:
Talc pleurodesis - This procedure is performed to relieve breathlessness by draining fluid from around the lungs and talc or a chemical powder is put into the body cavity surrounding the lungs to prevent further build-up of fluid
Radiotherapy - This treatment is performed to try to relieve breathlessness, pain and discomfort
Chemotherapy – This treatment is performed to try to reduce symptoms. It's only sometimes helpful and only recommended in certain cases
Extrapleural pneumonectomy – This surgery aims to remove the visible tumour, or as much as possible. It's a radical surgery and is only suitable for a small number of patients
Pleurectomy-decortication - This operation usually leads to better lung function. However, it's only rarely recommended. It aims to remove all or part of the pleura and lung tissue close to it to reduce the mesothelioma
New treatments - Clinical trials are carried out to research new treatments all the time. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients but you should discuss the option with their doctor first
Physiotherapy - Physiotherapy is often recommended to help maintain exercise tolerance, strength and functional ability as much as possible
Cordotomy - To relieve symptoms of pain
Analgesics - To control symptoms of pain
It's important to note that treatments and clinical trials change often and it's therefore important that you speak to your consultant about your treatment options.
Are there benefits available for people with mesothelioma?
Yes. There are a number of benefits available to people who have mesothelioma. There are also one-off payments which may be available depending on your circumstances, such as:
Pneumoconiosis Etc. (Workers Compensation) Act 1979
The Diffuse Mesothelioma 2018 Scheme
The Diffuse Mesothelioma Scheme (DMPS)
For more information about the benefits and payments you may be entitled to, read our Benefits and Payments guide.
As well as benefits and payments from the Government, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering.
Why choose Slater and Gordon’s mesothelioma solicitors?
We’re immensely proud to have a team of specialist mesothelioma solicitors who have many years of experience and understand the complexities which can be faced. We have a strong reputation when it comes finding insurers of companies which have been out of business for many years and securing the best possible outcome to mesothelioma compensation claim.
We have an excellent track record of securing compensation for those who suffer from mesothelioma and their families, and have worked on cases such as:
John Slade, a former teacher, who was given just one year to live after a diagnosis of mesothelioma
We offer No Win No Fee agreements to all clients who have been diagnosed mesothelioma and will not charge any additional fees meaning you'll get to keep all your compensation.
If you or a loved one has suffered from, or is suffering from, mesothelioma, even if the exposure to asbestos took place many years ago, you may be entitled to compensation. Watch our video of John, a grandfather and former teacher, who was diagnosed with asbestos related illness, mesothelioma.
Found this useful?
Share this video:
We would highly recommend Slater and Gordon solicitors especially Pauline Chandler and her team. After my husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma Pauline and her team took over his claim for compensation. They dealt with us with compassion and empathy at a very difficult time. Nothing was too much trouble and any emails or phone calls were dealt with promptly, from start to finish they kept us informed. The outcome was beyond our expectations and was proof of the hard work that had been put in.
Client testimonial (for Pauline Chandler)
I would highly recommend Slater & Gordon Lawyers and especially John Browne. My Dad become ill with mesothelioma in 2020 and sadly died in September 2020. This case was a complicated one and John dealt with the various problems with speed and efficiency, explaining everything to me in detail. I shall always remember his kindness and empathy and the way he guided me through that terrible time with such compassion resulting in a substantial settlement for my Mum.
Client testimonial (for John Browne)
Contact one of our industrial disease experts today
We are an award winning law firm and have a dedicated team of industrial disease solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of asbestos claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our industrial disease experts today
Frequently asked questions about mesothelioma claims
Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma?
As mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, there are certain professions that are far more susceptible to developing the condition due to an increased likelihood of contact with the material. This includes industries such as construction and manufacturing, carpentry, plumbing and more.
There are approximately 2,500 people a year in the UK who are diagnosed with mesothelioma, the majority of which are men.
How much could I receive for a mesothelioma compensation claim?
It can be difficult to determine how much compensation you could be entitled to without reviewing the facts of your case. This is because the level of compensation awarded will be largely dependent upon a range of different factors, including the costs of any care required or any financial losses you and your loved ones have suffered because of your illness.
To find out more about how much compensation you could be awarded, speak to our specialist mesothelioma solicitors; they’ll ask a few questions, and will be able to tell you if they think you have a case and what the next steps will be.
Is there a time limit for making a mesothelioma claim?
Under UK law, you have three years from the date you were first diagnosed with mesothelioma to make a claim for compensation. If you are making a claim on behalf of a family member who has unfortunately died of mesothelioma, you have three years from the date of death, or from the date it was confirmed that their death was caused by mesothelioma.
We understand that it can be difficult to talk about your diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one, so when you are ready, we’ll be here to listen.
Can I make a mesothelioma claim if the company I used to work for no longer exists?
Simply put, yes you can. As mesothelioma can take several decades to develop, there are many cases in which previous employers have gone out of business or shut down. In these circumstances, we’ll track down the company’s previous insurer, who will hand the compensation claim on behalf of your old employer.
To find out more, or to establish your full legal position, get in touch with our mesothelioma solicitors on 0330 041 5869 or arrange a call back at a time that suits you using our online form.
Really helpful and always on the other side of the phone if needed. Quick and easy service. Ashley
Excellent communication, in constant contact with the latest info regarding your case. David
Everything is moving along quickly and smoothly. Good professional service I'm glad I chose Slater and Gordon. Kenny Jackson