Action Mesothelioma Day 2026: Raising Awareness of Asbestos Exposure
Action Mesothelioma Day occurs on the first Friday of July every year. It is a special day of awareness and remembrance for all those who have been affected by mesothelioma.
This year, Action Mesothelioma Day will take place on Friday 3rd July 2026.
What is mesothelioma?
In the UK, approximately 2,500 people each year are diagnosed with mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is asbestos related disease1. This type of cancer develops in the thin tissue that lines many internal organs. The thin tissue is called the mesothelium.
The most common type of mesothelioma forms in the tissue around the lungs, called the pleura. This is called pleural mesothelioma. However, the cancer can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), the lining of the heart (pericardium) and the tissue around the testicles (tunica vaginalis).
Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are treatment options available that aim to improve quality of life and/or extend life expectancy.
Was asbestos used in the UK?
Blue, brown, and white asbestos were widely imported into and manufactured in the UK for use in a broad range of products across many industries over several decades. It was widely used as it has excellent thermal insulation and fire-resistant qualities. As a result, asbestos-containing materials such as lagging and sheeting were heavily used in the construction industry during the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.
In 1999, the UK banned the use of all forms of asbestos. However, asbestos is still found in many buildings constructed prior to the ban. This presents an ongoing risk, as these materials can deteriorate or be disturbed over time, potentially releasing harmful fibres into the air, which can then be inhaled.
Although the dangers of asbestos exposure have been publicly recognised for many decades, many employers and property owners continue to fall short in properly managing asbestos within their premises. Consequently, people are still being exposed to hazardous asbestos fibres today, despite this being entirely preventable. This is why raising awareness is important.
Who may have been exposed to asbestos dust?
The majority of mesothelioma cases we handle arise from past occupational exposure, particularly in traditional trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, insulation, pipe fitting, ship repair, and general labouring. However, there has been a noticeable increase in cases involving individuals who were exposed while working in environments not typically associated with asbestos risk, including offices, retail settings, schools, and healthcare facilities.
In recent years, another lesser-known source of exposure has emerged via talcum powder and certain make-up items contaminated with asbestos-containing talc.
Asbestos and talc naturally occur in the same geological areas but some manufacturers failed to ensure their talc based products were free from asbestos contamination. As a result, a growing number of people are being diagnosed with mesothelioma where the only identifiable exposure is through use of talc based products.
It is important to note that not everyone exposed to asbestos fibres will develop mesothelioma. For those who do, the disease typically has a long latency period, with symptoms often appearing between 10 and 60 years or more after exposure. This means that individuals who know they were exposed to asbestos dust in the past may face many years of uncertainty, wondering whether they will develop mesothelioma due to their exposure.
Who can attend Action Mesothelioma Day 2026 events?
Many events around the country, organised by local asbestos support groups and trades unions, will be taking place to mark this day. These events are open to everyone, and all are encouraged to attend. It is an opportunity for individuals to help raise awareness about the disease and to remember those who have sadly lost their lives as a result of it.
Asbestos support groups provide vital support to people with mesothelioma, helping victims and their families with practical and emotional support, whilst also raising awareness through events like Action Mesothelioma Day.
Those affected by mesothelioma are invited to take part in events on Friday, 3 July 2026, and to help raise awareness by sharing information about Action Mesothelioma Day with family and friends. Events are being held across the UK, organised by asbestos support groups and other related organisations, with details available online. For those unable to attend in person, you can still show your support by lighting a candle in memory of a loved one or wearing blue as a tribute to those who have lost their lives to mesothelioma.
Contact Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related condition, we strongly recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible. Our Asbestos & Workplace Illness team will explore all available options with you to pursue a compensation claim.
We offer our services on a “no win, no fee” basis, with no hidden costs and no deductions for legal fees. We can also help ensure you are receiving any Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits you may be entitled to. Call us today on 0330 822 3451 or request a callback.