Action Mesothelioma Day

Date: 30 June 2011

Friday 1 July is Action Mesothelioma Day. Campaigners are running events throughout the country to raise awareness about asbestos and the cancer it causes.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest which is caused by exposure to asbestos.Over 2,000 people a year are dying from mesothelioma as a result of past exposure to asbestos. Even low-levels of exposure can cause mesothelioma.

Tenants in social housing and staff and children in schools are a particular concern as asbestos materials were widely used in their construction. Campaigners are also objecting to the suspension of the HSE 'Hidden Killer' campaign aimed at trades people and maintenance workers - as they are at risk of disturbing asbestos in buildings.

Details of events for Action Mesothelioma Day are available on the Asbestos Forum website.

Internationally, pressure is mounting against the Canadian Government which continues to export asbestos to developing countries.  Friday 1 July is also Canada Day and unions in Australia are asking people to send a message of protest to the Canadian Prime Minister.