Mesothelioma Awareness Day: Understanding Asbestos Risks and Supporting Vital Research
Mesothelioma day takes place annually on 26th September. This day was confirmed in 2004 by Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation Community Members. The aim of this day is to raise awareness of mesothelioma and help raise funds for research into the disease.
According to Cancer Research UK, there are 2,700 new mesothelioma cases every year in the UK compared to 4,700 new lung cancer cases or 55,000 new invasive breast cancer cases.1 Unfortunately, these statistics often result in lower levels of funding for mesothelioma research and treatment compared with many other forms of cancer.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer which is caused by exposure to asbestos fibres over time. There are different types of mesothelioma which include: pleural mesothelioma (this forms in the lining of the lungs (pleura), peritoneal mesothelioma (this forms in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), pericardial mesothelioma (this grows in the lining around the heart) and testicular mesothelioma (forms in the linings of the testes (tunica vaginalis)).
Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate mineral made up of thin fibres which were commonly used in the past in construction due to its fire resisting and thermal properties. All asbestos is considered harmful and classified as a type I carcinogen.
Importance of raising awareness
Although the UK banned the import and use of blue and brown asbestos in 1985, followed by a ban on chrysotile (white asbestos) in 1999, mesothelioma cases continue to occur due to the disease’s long latency period. Typically, symptoms do not develop until around 1- 40 or more years after exposure, meaning many individuals who came into contact with asbestos before the bans are only now receiving a diagnosis.
Despite these restrictions, asbestos remains a concern today because it is still present in many buildings constructed before 2000. This highlights the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing risks associated with asbestos exposure. Anyone carrying out maintenance, refurbishment, or renovation work should take appropriate precautions and ensure the necessary checks are completed to identify the presence of asbestos and manage it safely.2
Importance of funding for research
Recent advances in mesothelioma research are offering fresh hope to patients and their families. In 2025 and 2026, clinical trials led by the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Leicester and the Southampton Clinical Trials Unit demonstrated that targeted therapies can improve survival rates for patients with relapsed mesothelioma, where the cancer has returned after treatment. However, these therapies are not effective for every patient, as their success depends on factors such as the individual’s genetic profile and the specific biomarkers present within the tumour.3
Researchers are also exploring the use of proton beam therapy as a potential treatment for mesothelioma. Early findings suggest that this approach could increase two-year survival rates from around 30% to 50%, offering a promising new option for some patients.4
Continued investment in research is essential to build on these developments and support the discovery of more effective treatments. Increased funding gives researchers and healthcare organisations the resources needed to advance care and provide patients and their families with genuine hope for the future.
How you can get involved
There are many ways you can get involved and show your support for individuals suffering from this disease and their family, of which some include:
- Paint the World Blue: Blue is the official mesothelioma awareness colour. You can wear blue and encourage those around you to join in. Take photos and share these on your socials using #curemeso
- Like and share the Mesothelioma Foundation’s social media posts to help raise awareness
- Take part in fundraising for charities which support patients who have been diagnosed with asbestos related conditions.
- Take part in fundraising to help raise funds for research into this disease
If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition, such as mesothelioma, as a result of asbestos exposure, our specialist Asbestos & Workplace Illness team can provide expert advice on your legal options. To get answers to your questions, give the team a call today on 0330 822 3451 or request a callback.