Today is Action Mesothelioma Day

Action Mesothelioma Day aims to raise awareness of mesothelioma and how it impacts those who are diagnosed with the disease. On the first Friday in July every year, mesothelioma support groups across the country put on events to bring together people who are living with the condition.

What is mesothelioma and who does it affect?

Mesothelioma is a cancer affecting the lining of the lungs (or pleura) and the lining surrounding the lower digestive tract. It is almost always caused by dangerous exposure to asbestos and can take years to develop before symptoms appear.

Most people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have previously worked in close proximity with asbestos. Some of the most commonly affected industries are construction, railway building and boiler-making. But this is not an exhaustive list.

Asbestos was fully banned in the UK in 1999. But because asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma can take so long to develop, many people are only now receiving a diagnosis after being exposed to asbestos in the 20th century.

Why Action Mesothelioma Day is so important

Sadly, mesothelioma still remains one of the biggest causes of work-related deaths in Britain.

Last year, around 2,000 people died from mesothelioma according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). But despite this, there is little government funding for medical research.

Campaigns like Action Mesothelioma Day were created to highlight the relative lack of knowledge surrounding mesothelioma as a disease, whilst honouring those who have passed away from it.

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, which makes it all the more important that awareness is raised – as well as funds – to support the development of mesothelioma treatment.

How you can get involved

This year, mesothelioma charities are asking people to get involved by lighting their homes or a prominent local landmark in blue – the colour representing mesothelioma awareness.

It is hoped that by doing this, a spotlight will be shone on a disease which is often not given the attention it deserves.

There will also be events put on up and down the country – such as guest speaker sessions, local meet-ups and sponsored butterfly releases in honour of those who have died from mesothelioma.

If you’re unable to get involved in any of the ways we’ve mentioned above, there is always the option to post on social media. Use the hashtags #ActionMeso and #GoBlueforMeso to show your support online.

What to do if you’re diagnosed with mesothelioma

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, we know that making a claim may not be the first thing on your mind. But compensation could help to secure your finances, so you can cover the cost of specialist medical care and make arrangements for your family to be looked after.

Our friendly advisors are here to help you. To find out more, give us a call on the number at the top of the screen or start your enquiry online.