Asbestos deaths rising in Scotland

Deaths from asbestos-related illnesses have increased over the years in Scotland, particularly in the Tayside area. At least 14 people died in the Dundee area in 2012, an increase of 30% from 2007.

About 240 people from the Tayside area were admitted to the hospital with asbestos-related illnesses over the last two years, compared to 74 in 2007. The increase in numbers is likely due to industry in the area that includes using the carcinogenic substance asbestos.

Asbestos exposure is directly related to several severe illnesses including mesothelioma, a fatal form of cancer that attacks the lungs and abdominal cavity. Doctors estimate that one person in the UK dies every 5 hours from mesothelioma cancer.