Asbestos Litigation

A number of former blue-collar workers across South Tyneside, UK, recently received portions of a £5 million compensation payout for being exposed to asbestos on the job, reports the Shields Gazette.

According to the news source, former workers suffering from the lung condition pleural plaques caused by asbestos exposure received the compensation from the government.

Former shipyard worker Bob Cusworth, who was one of the first local residents to receive the payout, told the news source that he was pleased that people suffering from the rare condition like him were being compensated.

"It’s great news that lads who suffer from pleural plaques are finally getting some compensation," he said.

Cusworth, who has six children, has suffered greatly from the disease and cannot walk due to the condition, according to the news source. He added that those seeking compensation for the condition should make sure to do so prior to the deadline, which is August 1.

In addition to pleural plaques, exposure to asbestos can cause asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that occurs in the tissues surrounding many of the body's internal organs.

According to the Mirror, malignant mesothelioma kills approximately one person every five hours in Britain.