Dorset asbestos deaths set to rise

West Dorset Coroner Mr Johnston believes an increase in death from mesothelioma is inevitable in the West Dorset Area.

Mr Johnston has dealt with 10 cases of death due to mesothelioma already this year with more cases listed to be investigated.

Speaking after a recent mesothelioma inquest Mr Johnston said "It is a growing issue. This area is likely to be particularly affected because of the former dockyards at Portland and the link with the Royal Navy. Many people also settled in this area after leaving the Navy …. Years ago I was usually told that there was no evidence of naval personnel being exposed to asbestos during service. But from the late 1980s that changed and it was accepted that anyone who served in ships in the merchant navy or Royal Navy would have been exposed to it."

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