Due to the extensive use of asbestos throughout the 20th century, Australia has one of the highest incidences of mesothelioma in the world. Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure.
While strict regulations on the use of asbestos have been in force for quite some time, Australian residents are still developing asbestos-related diseases because of the severe latency period associated with symptoms. Mesothelioma symptoms can take as long as 50 years to arise from the time of a person’s initial exposure to asbestos.
In other news, New South Wales recently introduced legislation to increase the lump sum payment to families of asbestos victims by as much as $65,000. Michael Daley, New South Wales Finance Minister, raised the compensation from $245,700 to $311,050.
Additional information on mesothelioma may be found through the Mesothelioma Center.
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