The impact of asbestos on the UK workforce: three waves of mesothelioma

FREE WEBINAR

The impact of asbestos on the UK workforce: three waves of mesothelioma

Asbestos is a mineral resistant to high temperatures, valued for its use as a fire retardant and heat insulating material. In addition, sadly, exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma, an incurable cancer with a prognosis of 12-18 months. The UK has the highest recorded rate of mesothelioma in the world.

Incidence of mesothelioma has typically been higher in men and in certain occupational groups, including asbestos mining and construction industries. However, exposure to degrading asbestos in buildings means that the patient profile is changing. Asbestos, the UK’s number one cause of work-related deaths, is present in 94% of hospital trusts in England and 80% of UK state schools.

This webinar will introduce the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, based at the University of Sheffield. An overview of the history of asbestos use in the UK will be given, explaining the three waves of mesothelioma and political context. The main focus will be the risk and impact of asbestos exposure today. We will draw on four research studies, each concentrating on a particular patient group; military personnel, health care professionals, education workers and women. Implications for clinical practice will be addressed.

Biography: Dr. Peter Allmark 

Research Assistant based at the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, University of Sheffield. Since 2016, has worked on qualitative sub-studies nested in clinical trials and qualitative/ mixed methods studies exploring the patient and family carer experience of receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma and engagement in palliative care. Has a research background in philosophy and health care ethics and has worked extensively in this area, for example, on studies into informed consent.

Biography: Dr. Bethany Taylor 

Research Fellow based at the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, University of Sheffield. Since 2016, has led a number of studies including qualitative sub-studies nested in clinical trials and qualitative/ mixed methods studies exploring the patient and family carer experience of receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma and engagement in palliative care. Has an interest in seeking to understand the experiences of people with mesothelioma following exposure in non-traditional environments, such as public buildings including schools. Bethany's esearch seeks to learn from the experiences of patients, family members and health professionals to improve understanding of asbestos risk and to shape service provision and care delivery. 

Chair: Dr Will ponsonby

FREE for ALL. Register online. You will then be sent the joining link.