Risks 29th Jan 2008 reported that a former welder diagnosed with lung cancer after being exposed to asbestos has been paid provisional compensation. The unnamed former welder, 73, received the £20,000 payout after being diagnosed with lung cancer in August 2006. He was exposed to asbestos while working as a welder at Cammell Laird shipyard, an engineer for Birds Eye Foods and while employed by Laker Vent Engineering.
The lifetime non-smoker had half his lung removed immediately following his diagnosis but has been told there is a high risk of the cancer returning. He contacted Unite after being advised by his doctors to claim compensation. 'I was devastated when I found out that I had lung cancer,' he said. 'The doctor said if I did not have the operation I would not see him again. The operation went well and I am lucky to be alive but it is always at the back of your mind that it will return.
Claiming compensation was the last thing on my mind but the nurses at the hospital told me I should contact my union. I am glad I did because I now know my family will be provided for if the lung cancer returns in the future.' Joanne Candlish from Thompsons Solicitors said: 'Lung cancer cases are particularly difficult as there are many issues to overcome, but this case demonstrates that we can, and do, succeed. As the claim was settled on a provisional basis the client has the peace of mind knowing that if, God forbid, the cancer does recur or he develops another asbestos related disease he can re-open his claim for further compensation.' Recent studies have shown an unexpectedly high number of lung cancers are occurring in lifetime non-smokers, with occupational and environmental exposures to cancer-causing substances implicated.
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