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Government statistics show that there will be an increase in diagnosis of asbestos related diseases over the next 2-3 decades affecting some 100,000 people nationally. More than half of those affected will die within 6-12 months of being diagnosed. This cancer is one of the few that could be prevented. However it is poorly supported from other cancer charities and also has low priority from Government Agencies, thus little research is being done into this disease and any treatments are symptom control only.
The presence of Asbestos in the enviornment is not going to disappear but will continue to be a potential threat to health for many future generations. It should therefore be considered a growing Public Health problem as well as an Enviornmental issue.
The founder members of this group have personally been touched by the premature loss of a loved one through exposure to Asbestos. They all share similar experiences which means that others must also be confronting the same issues, from the initial shock of the diagnosis, through to difficulties in obtaining any information on the subject, to trying to locate a centre of excellence or find clinical trials dealing with this type of cancer. Their negative experiences make them determined in their quest that others will have somewhere to turn to for help. They are united in their philosophy that a 'Positive' comes out of their 'Negative' life changing experiences. Hence the creation of the group and it's aims and objectives.
Since the launch of the group on 24th March 2003 the following has been achieved:
- Confidential Telephone helpline has been set up.
- We have attracted High Profile individuals whom wish to be associated with AAW/UK and help raise public awareness. They are, Paul Thorburn former Welsh Rugby Captain; the Ogmore Valley MP the Right Honourable Huw Irranca Davies, who represents us on the Parlimentary Panel for Asbestos Issues and Peter Duncan, freelance journalist. Peter is very well known and respected amongst those in the profession both locally and nationally. We are very lucky to have his marketing expertise and help.
- A donation of £4000 to Medical Research into Asbestos Related cancers.
NB. The AAW/UK Logo design incorporates the colours of Asbestos Fibres
