New Figures Show Castle Point Has Twice the National Average Number of Asbestos-Related Cancer Deaths

According to new figures, Castle Point, Essex has more than twice the national average number of deaths from the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma. The area has the fourth highest rate of deaths from mesothelioma in England and Wales, reflecting its industrial past.

The figures were announced following a study by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers into asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma. The study found that the national average rate of deaths per 100,000 was 4.51, while in Castle Point, the number of deaths per 100,000 people was 9.87.

Widely used in a variety of industries, asbestos was commonly encountered by tradesmen including electricians, construction workers, dockers, shipbuilders, plumbers and factory workers. It is estimated that around 20 tradesmen die each week in the UK as a result of past asbestos exposure. 

When asbestos dust or fibres become airborne and are breathed in, it can cause a number of serious diseases including mesothelioma- an aggressive and incurable form of lung cancer, which can take up to 30 years to develop following asbestos exposure. 

Ian Bailey, asbestos specialist and London-based partner at Irwin Mitchell, said:

Expert Opinion

“The dangers of asbestos exposure were well-known from as early as the 1950s, yet throughout the 20th Century, many employers continued to expose their workers to asbestos by negligently failing to provide adequate training and protection.

“Deaths from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases are significantly higher in areas of past industry and despite exposure to asbestos happening many years ago, the numbers of deaths from this awful disease are predicted to rise to a peak over the next few years. Sadly, it is our clients who are now paying the price for simply going to work to earn a living.” Ian Bailey - Partner

The research found that Barrow-in-Furness had the highest rate of deaths per 100,000 people, with 11.57. This was followed by North Tyneside, 11.23, and South Tyneside, 10.01.