AVSGF-UK: Action Mesothelioma Day

Action Mesothelioma Day

The British Lung Foundation (BLF) and supporting organisations established Action Mesothelioma Day on the 27^th February 2006 to bring to public attention the mesothelioma epidemic caused by exposure to asbestos and to promote a Mesothelioma Charter.

Hundreds of mesothelioma sufferers and their families and supporters took part in events organised throughout the country to mark Action Mesothelioma Day.
For images of the AMD 2008 please..... click here

Action Mesothelioma Charter

We, the undersigned, believe that:

Mesothelioma patients and their families have a right to:

a speedy and accurate diagnosis, supported by a Multi Disciplinary Team discussion;
good quality information from a variety of sources available in different media and languages;
support of a suitably qualified nurse and other Multi Disciplinary Team members throughout their illness;
be considered for the best possible treatments available with the support and input of a Multi Disciplinary Team;
have up-to-date advice on benefits and help in applying for them, and receive prompt payment of benefits;
have legal advice and guidance from a firm of solicitors experienced in mesothelioma claims;
guidance on end of life decisions and care at home;
provision of a consistent nationwide service from coroners using a clear and open process with a maximum case length of three months.

And call upon the Government to:
have mesothelioma made a national priority by the Cancer Tsar;
fund good quality research, alongside other national bodies, on mesothelioma with a view to improving diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for patients;
support the production of clinical Guidelines on the best practice of diagnosis and management of mesothelioma;
ensure the Health and Safety Executive vigorously enforce existing regulations on asbestos.

And call upon all employers to:
prevent future exposure to asbestos by providing a safe working environment with all necessary equipment to protect employees;
work with unions and individuals to ensure enforcement of current regulations to safeguard all employees;
identify all asbestos in their properties and organise its safe removal where practical or necessary when work is being carried out.

Mesothelioma is a malignant lung disease which results mainly from exposure to asbestos. Someone dies every five hours from mesothelioma in the UK.