Abestos removal

Asbestos-related diseases cause over 5,000 deaths each year

Asbestos exposure is a serious health risk in the UK, with thousands of deaths reported each year. If you’re looking to understand the risks and the scale of asbestos-related deaths in the UK, it’s important to be aware of the statistics and the reasons behind these tragic outcomes. 

Here we will break down key information about asbestos-related deaths, focusing on their causes, prevention, and how they impact you and your community.

What Is Asbestos, and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing because it resists heat and fire. However, when asbestos is disturbed, it releases tiny fibers that can be inhaled. 

These fibers get stuck in the lungs and can cause serious diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. For more details on how asbestos affects your health, the NHS have put together a very informative article which is worth reading. NHS guidance on asbestos exposure.

Asbestos-Related Deaths in the UK

Key Statistics on Asbestos-Related Deaths

In the UK, asbestos-related diseases cause over 5,000 deaths each year. Mesothelioma, a type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, is the leading cause, with around 2,500 deaths annually. Asbestos-related lung cancer accounts for another 2,000 deaths. 

These numbers show how asbestos exposure, especially among construction workers and those in industries where asbestos was used, continues to have long-term effects. For a detailed look at these statistics, visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) asbestos page.

Why Are Deaths Still So High across the UK?

You might wonder why asbestos-related deaths remain high, even though the UK banned asbestos use in 1999. The reason is that many people were exposed to asbestos decades ago. 

Diseases caused by asbestos can take 20-50 years to show symptoms, meaning those exposed before the ban are only now being diagnosed. For more information on the latency of asbestos-related diseases, read this article from Mesothelioma UK.

How to Protect Yourself from Asbestos Exposure

Identifying Asbestos in Older Buildings

If you lived or worked in a building built before the year 2000, there would be a high chance the building would have contained asbestos. Common places include old insulation, floor tiles, and cement. 

The Role of Awareness and Education in Reducing Deaths

Raising awareness about asbestos risks is key to reducing future deaths. Teaching workers, employers, and the public how to spot and handle asbestos can help prevent exposure. You can play a part by learning more and sharing information about asbestos dangers with others. The British Lung Foundation offers useful resources on this topic.

Staying Informed, doing your research will keep you safe.

Asbestos-related deaths remain a critical issue in the UK. By understanding the risks and taking proper steps, you can protect yourself and others from these dangerous fibers. Whether you are renovating a home or working in an older building, staying informed and researching as much as you can will make all the difference.

 

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