How accurate is ITV drama Trigger Point's mesothelioma storyline? Expert asbestos disease lawyer debunks the myths
Series three of ITV drama Trigger Point, starring Vicky McClure, has gripped audiences with its latest storyline. However, beneath the tension lies a sobering truth: the storyline of corporate cover-ups and negligent asbestos exposure highlights the real-life struggles of thousands of mesothelioma victims across the UK.
The storyline is misleading in that not everyone who is exposed to asbestos will go on to develop a debilitating asbestos-related illness such as mesothelioma; very few will in fact.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a relatively rare - albeit aggressive and incurable - cancer caused by exposure to asbestos – often several decades before symptoms appear. The latency, or incubation period, can span 20 to 50 years, meaning many sufferers are diagnosed long after their exposure, most often in retirement.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just older men working in heavy industry who are affected. Teachers, nurses and doctors, and even family members exposed to the hazardous material second-hand – for example through contaminated clothing – may also be at risk.
One of the most misleading myths is that mesothelioma is simply lung cancer or that smoking is a contributing factor. In truth, mesothelioma is distinct from lung cancer and is almost always caused by asbestos exposure.
The legal landscape and helping those diagnosed with mesothelioma
The legal landscape is equally misunderstood. Asbestos victims often believe they have no legal recourse if the company responsible no longer exists. In reality, specialist solicitors can trace employer’s liability insurers and pursue compensation via civil claims. The Mesothelioma UK legal panel, of which Irwin Mitchell is a longstanding and proud member, offers free, expert advice with no upfront costs.
Uncovering corporate negligence
Legal actions, like those dramatized in Trigger Point, have been pivotal in exposing corporate negligence.
Over the years, landmark cases – including the Armley environmental asbestos case of June Hancock, who successfully brought a legal claim through Irwin Mitchell after being exposed to asbestos as a child while living near to a factory in Leeds, have held companies accountable for knowingly exposing workers and communities to asbestos, albeit not company directors as individuals.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is always wise to seek specialist legal advice. The truth must come out – not just on screen, but in courtrooms across the country. That said, no one would exact the kind of revenge or harm to human life as perpetrated by the bomber in the series.
Conclusion
While Trigger Point plays an important role in raising awareness of this dreadful form of cancer it's not at all reflective of what we see in real life.
TV producers obviously need to adopt an element of creative licence to make their stories more exciting - this plays an important role in raising general awareness - but if you or loved ones are affected by asbestos, it's crucial to speak to specialist lawyers to ensure that you get advice based on reality not fiction.
Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people and families affected by mesothelioma at our dedicated asbestos-related disease claims section.
