Asbestos related lung cancer

What is it?

Lung cancer is the most common asbestos related fatal disease. The risk of lung cancer increases in direct proportion to the level of exposure. Non-small cell carcinoma begins to grow on average about ten years before clinical signs appear; whereas, small cell carcinoma begins to develop about three years before clinical signs can be detected.
 
All asbestos exposure prior to the commencement of the growth of the tumour is significant.

It is known that people who smoke and are exposed to asbestos are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer. There is no clinical means of distinguishing between lung cancer that is caused by asbestos and lung cancer that is caused by smoking.
 
However, there is very clear evidence to the effect that:

If a client has a 5% risk of developing lung cancer as a result of asbestos exposure and a 10% risk as a result of smoking, his or her combined risk is 50%.

Historically, there has been a presumption that lung cancer could not be attributed to asbestos unless it had been preceded by asbestosis: a separate asbestos related condition. However, recent research has confirmed that asbestos related lung cancer can occur in people who have not developed asbestosis. Some defendants continue to rely on the old (pre 1985) argument as a means of trying to limit their exposure. However, research and epidemiological evidence counters this.

The criteria for attribution of lung cancer to asbestos exposure varies. As a general rule, the higher the level of exposure, the more likely a link between lung cancer and asbestos exposure can be established.

Will I get worse?

If the tumour is diagnosed very early, radical surgery may be possible. However, in more advanced cases this will not be suitable and treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy may enhance life expectancy but will not be a cure.

Is compensation available?

If it can be proved on the balance of probabilities that a client's lung cancer is asbestos related rather than due to some other cause, compensation is available.

Have you helped others like me?

We have many years of experience. Read our case studies to find out how we have helped others.

If you have been diagnosed as suffering from asbestos related lung cancer we can help. Fill in our form or call us and one of our team will contact you within 24 hours and will be happy to discuss your claim.