UKATA Health Risks

Question 1

What is mesothelioma?

Accepted Answer

A cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure

Answer

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium (the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart) that is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. It is always fatal, with most patients surviving less than 12 months from diagnosis.

Question 2

Approximately how many people die each year in the UK from asbestos-related diseases?

Accepted Answer

Around 5,000

Answer

Approximately 5,000 people die each year in the UK from asbestos-related diseases, making it the single greatest cause of work-related deaths. This number is expected to remain high for many years due to the long latency period.

Question 3

What is the typical latency period for asbestos-related diseases to develop after initial exposure?

Accepted Answer

15-60 years

Answer

Asbestos-related diseases typically take 15-60 years to develop after initial exposure. This long latency period means that people exposed decades ago may only now be developing symptoms.

Question 4

What is asbestosis?

Accepted Answer

A scarring of the lung tissue caused by inhaling asbestos fibres

Answer

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition where inhaled asbestos fibres cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. This reduces the lungs' ability to transfer oxygen, causing breathlessness and, in severe cases, can be fatal.

Question 5

Which of the following is true about the health effects of asbestos exposure?

Accepted Answer

There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure

Answer

There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure. While the risk increases with greater exposure, even brief low-level exposure can potentially cause disease. This is why the Control of Asbestos Regulations are so strict.

Asbestos Awareness Practice Test

Asbestos Awareness Practice Test

UKATA Health Risks