An article in the News and Star reports that 300 men from the region of Cumbria, England have died of asbestos-related cancer in the last 19 years. These figures, recently released by the Health and Safety Executive, also indicate an upward trend in the rates of mesothelioma diagnosed among local men who have worked in this highly industrial area for most of their lives.

Ian McFall, head of asbestos policy at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “These figures once again highlight the devastation asbestos has inflicted on people in Cumbria. Many of those affected worked in shipyards, factories or building sites and were given no protection or warning about the risks of asbestos exposure despite their employers being fully aware of the danger.”

“Although shocking, these figures come as no surprise given the widespread use of asbestos in the past,” added McFall, who is representing the families of many mesothelioma victims in attempts to obtain compensation for their loss.

“Sadly, the number of people who will die from this disease will continue to rise until 2020,” he explained.

The report also broke down the number of cases into different areas. Figures showed as much as a 30% increase in many towns during the period 1985-2004 as compared to 1981-2000. The town of Barrow, where a large shipyard has operated for several decades, saw the largest increase in cases of mesothelioma.

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