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Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2024

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This Thursday September 26th, as we observe Mesothelioma Awareness Day, it is important to reflect on the impact of this rare but aggressive cancer, as well as the ongoing efforts to improve awareness, prevention, and treatment.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Despite the asbestos ban taking effect in late 2003, mesothelioma remains a pressing health concern, particularly for those who were exposed in industries where asbestos was prevalent.

Why Raising Awareness is Important

Australia has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world, with an estimated 900 Australians diagnosed each year. It is estimated that 897 people will be diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2024. On average, 2 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in Australia every day.

Symptoms of this rare disease often develop 20-60 years after a victim’s initial exposure to asbestos, and many are not diagnosed with mesothelioma until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. The average age at diagnosis is 76 years old.

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma. Therefore, raising awareness about the warning signs and risk factors of mesothelioma allows those who have a history of asbestos exposure to begin routine screening to hopefully prevent cancer development.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that covers most internal organs. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in various industries.

Mesothelioma can be classified into four main types, depending on the location of the tumours:

  • Pleural Mesothelioma: The most common type, affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura), which accounts for 95% of cases.
  • Peritoneal Mesothelioma: This form affects the lining of the abdomen and represents about 5% of mesothelioma cases. It generally has a better prognosis than pleural mesothelioma, with surgery often being a successful treatment option.
  • Pericardial Mesothelioma: A very rare form, affecting the lining of the heart, accounting for less than 1% of cases, with limited treatment options.
  • Testicular Mesothelioma: The rarest type, forming in the lining of the testes, which accounts for less than 1% of cases, but has a higher long-term survival rate compared to other forms of mesothelioma.

Can my Work cause Mesothelioma?

Occupational exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos fibres, when disturbed, become airborne and can be inhaled or ingested, leading to inflammation and cancerous changes over time. People working in industries like construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and asbestos mining are at the highest risk.

Sources of exposure:

  • Construction and demolition of buildings containing asbestos (insulation, tiles, roofing, etc.)
  • Shipbuilding, especially during repairs or dismantling of ships with asbestos-containing materials
  • Manufacturing of asbestos-containing products, including automotive brake pads and clutches
  • Mining or processing raw asbestos or asbestos-containing materials
  • Fireproofing materials in older buildings
  • Pipefitting or plumbing where asbestos insulation is used

At-risk occupations include:

  • Construction workers, especially those involved in renovation or demolition
  • Shipbuilders and shipyard workers
  • Asbestos miners and processing workers
  • Insulation installers and removers
  • Pipefitters and plumbers
  • Automotive mechanics (due to asbestos in brake pads and clutches)
  • Firefighters (from exposure to asbestos in older buildings during fires)

Secondary exposure is also a risk. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos may come into contact with the fibres brought home on clothing, tools, or equipment.

What Are the signs and symptoms?

The symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on the type of cancer and its location, but many of the signs overlap across the different forms. General symptoms of mesothelioma include:

  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever and sweating
  • Dry cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest or abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite

In the early stages, these symptoms can be mild or mistaken for less serious illnesses, making early diagnosis difficult. As the disease progresses, the symptoms intensify. In pleural mesothelioma, shortness of breath and chest pain are common, while peritoneal mesothelioma often causes abdominal pain and swelling.

How do I protect myself from Mesothelioma at my workplace?

Prevention remains the best approach to combating mesothelioma. Avoiding asbestos exposure is the most effective way to reduce the risk of developing this disease. For workers in high-risk occupations, strict safety measures must be followed, including using protective gear and ensuring proper handling of asbestos-containing materials.

Am I eligible for Workcover Compensation?

If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to WorkCover compensation based on the nature of your employment (whether current or former employment).

It must be shown that the nature of your employment significantly increased the risk of contracting mesothelioma. There is no requirement to prove that the employment was the direct cause.

A worker diagnosed with mesothelioma may be entitled to claim WorkCover compensation for:

Am I eligible for Compensation if I was exposed not as a Worker.

Yes you may be entitled to lump sum damages. You may also be entitled to benefits through your superannuation and/or critical illness/trauma related benefits. We recommend you contact a personal injury lawyer to explore further.

What do I do if I think I have Mesothelioma?

If you think you may have mesothelioma, please see your general practitioner or a specialist to determine if it may be due to the nature of your employment.

It is important that you give an occupational history.

Given that the period between exposure and the onset of symptoms can be lengthy, early preventative measures and detection is highly recommended.

If you believe you have signs of mesothelioma or any other illness that stems from your working conditions, you can contact us for a No Fee, Obligation appointment.