TODAY, September 26, marks Mesothelioma Day in the US, an important day to raise awareness of the disease and of the dangers of asbestos worldwide.
Even though asbestos was banned from new buildings in the UK more than 20 years ago, it is a problem we all still live with. Many buildings, including factories, schools and even hospitals contain asbestos which can cause mesothelioma if asbestos is fractured or broken releasing deadly fibres into the air. Unbelievably, more than 2,500 people still die from the effects of being exposed to asbestos every year.
At Acorn Analytical Services, we take our responsibility to educating the public about the dangers of asbestos extremely seriously, not just on Mesothelioma Day 2022 – but every day.
Ultimately, we want to see asbestos removed from all buildings, but until that day comes, we will do everything we can to ensure more lives are saved.
This Mesothelioma Day, we want to highlight the work of Mesothelioma UK, the only charity dedicated to supporting people affected by this devastating disease.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer caused by exposure to the fibres contained within asbestos.
If the asbestos contained within a building is broken or even fractured, these fibres can be released into the air and inhaled. The fibres are microscopic and cannot be seen by the naked eye.
The disease usually affects the lungs or the stomach and there is no cure. Treatment involves helping a patient to cope with the symptoms rather than curing the disease.
It’s Mesothelioma Day. What about research?
Mesothelioma UK has funded research into the disease since 2015.
Current research projects being funded by the charity include investigations into the genetic changes which drive the tumours and research into how symptoms might be controlled and tests which could improve diagnosis and outcomes.
Mesothelioma UK also funds the Mesothelioma UK Centre for Research at the University of Sheffield, which is dedicated to improving care for people who are affected by mesothelioma and their families.
Mesothelioma Day is a really important way of raising awareness of the disease around the world.
What support is available?
Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is devastating, not just for the individual, but also their family.
Mesothelioma UK supports clinical nurse specialists who offer support and guidance to people affected by mesothelioma across the UK.
They also offer a freephone support line which is available by calling 0800 169 2409 or by emailing support@mesothelioma.uk.com
If you would like to show your support for Mesothelioma UK on Mesothelioma Day, you can find information about how to donate here.
What can I so to stay safe?
If your home or business premises were built before 1999 it is important to have a full asbestos survey and Mesothelioma Day is the perfect day to make your appointment.
The survey, conducted by one of our highly-trained consultants, will check for the presence of asbestos in your building. If it is found, we will advise you on the right steps to take to ensure it is managed safely and efficiently and within the latest regulations.
If you work within the construction industry and believe asbestos may be present on your site, our team of experts can take samples and process them in our mobile laboratory giving you the results you need immediately.
As well as advice around the management of asbestos, we offer a complete range of health and safety services designed to give you complete peace of mind wherever you are in the UK.
For more information, search for #MesotheliomaDay2022
Acorn is a professional asbestos consultancy helping organisations deal with asbestos compliance using asbestos surveys, asbestos air testing, and asbestos removal management.
Please call one of the team, or use the online form to obtain your free quotation. If you would like further information or advice on asbestos and asbestos training, contact the team on 0844 818 0895 or Contact Us
