Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos fibres, often developing decades after the original exposure has taken place.

Despite tighter regulations around asbestos use in the UK, thousands of individuals continue to be diagnosed each year, with many cases linked to historic workplace exposure.

For those affected, the impact can be devastating - not only physically, but emotionally and financially for both individuals and their families.

Occupational exposure

Historically, asbestos was widely used across industries including construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, engineering and public sector infrastructure due to its heat-resistant properties. As a result, many workers were unknowingly exposed over prolonged periods, often without adequate protection or awareness of the long-term health risks involved.

In many cases, symptoms may not present themselves for 20 to 50 years after exposure, making diagnosis particularly difficult, often leaving individuals unaware of the long-term impact until serious health complications begin to emerge later in life.

Why is specialist support so important?

Cases involving asbestos-related illness and industrial disease often require specialist medical evidence to help accurately assess diagnosis, causation and the long-term impact on an individual’s health and quality of life.

At MLA, we work closely with law firms across the UK, providing specialist medico-legal reporting services to support a wide range of Industrial Disease claims, including cases involving mesothelioma, asbestos exposure, occupational lung disease and other workplace-related illnesses.

Through our nationwide network of medical experts and streamlined instruction process, we help ensure legal professionals have access to the specialist evidence required to support often complex and sensitive claims.

Continuing the conversation

Action Mesothelioma Day serves as an important reminder that while asbestos exposure may have happened decades ago, the impact continues to affect thousands of individuals and families today.

At MLA, we remain committed to supporting legal professionals handling complex Industrial Disease matters by providing specialist expertise where it matters most.

Click here to explore our Industrial Disease services.

If you would like to discuss a case or learn more about how MLA can support your firm, contact Kevin McCarthy today, who specialises in Industrial Disease and Military NIHL claims:

Kevin.McCarthy@mla-ltd.co.uk